Active Noise Reduction Audiometry: A Prospective Analysis of a New Approach to Noise Management in Audiometric Testing

Abstract

Despite a 30-dB sound field, ANR audiometry can produce an audiogram identical to that obtained in a double-walled sound booth. ANR headphone audiometry improves the sensitivity of audiometric screening for mild low-frequency hearing loss. This technology may have important applications for screening in schools, industry, and community practices.

A “Medical Mission” at Home: The Needs of Rural America in Terms of Otolaryngology Care

“…Ancillary testing, such as imaging studies could be carried out locally, or at least loco‐regionally, in conjunction with existing “safety net” hospitals, as CT scanners (which are frequently used in evaluation of common problems, such as chronic sinus or otologic complaints) are widely available in rural settings. Audiologic evaluation could be undertaken at local facilities if they are available; alternatively, audiologists could be incorporated into the visiting clinic using an on‐site quiet room for testing and commercially available active noise reduction headphones 16 . With preoperative and postoperative care being delivered locally, patients would only need to travel to the distant academic or other hospitals for surgical treatment.…”

Validity of diagnostic pure-tone audiometry without a sound-treated environment in older adults

“…Ambient noise may reduce the specificity of audiometric testing (Bromwich et al 2008). In the absence of an audiometric booth, the management and the monitoring of background noise are essential for accurate evaluation of hearing thresholds .…”

“…A study by Frank and Williams (1993) measured noise levels in 136 audiometric test rooms in various audiological facilities. For air-conduction testing using supra-aural earphones only 50% of booths had threshold elevations (Bromwich et al 2008) and the active circuitry may raise the noise floor to unacceptable levels.…”

Doctors within borders: The potential benefit of otolaryngology “medical missions” at home

“…Ancillary testing such as imaging studies could be carried out locally in conjunction with existing public or "safety net" hospitals, as CT scanners are widely available in rural settings. Audiologic evaluation could be undertaken at local facilities if they are available; alternatively, audiologists could be incorporated into the visiting clinic using an on-site quiet room for testing and commercially available active noise reduction headphones 9 . While there are many additional logistical details to be considered when contemplating establishment of such an outreach clinic, we sought to quantify in some way the potential need of this population of patients.…”