Testing Services We Provide
Audiological Evaluations
ENT Carolina provides complete hearing testing for all ages provided by a certified clinical audiologist. Evaluations include measures of hearing sensitivity for air and bone conducted sounds, measures of speech discrimination ability, assessment of the middle ear function (impedance audiometry), and assessment of the inner ear function (otoacoustic emission testing).
Auditory Brainstem Response Testing (ABR)
The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test gives information about the inner ear (cochlea) and brain pathways for hearing. This test is also sometimes referred to as auditory evoked potential (AEP). The test can be used with children or others who have a difficult time with conventional behavioral methods of hearing screening. The ABR is also indicated for a person with signs, symptoms, or complaints suggesting a type of hearing loss in the brain or a brain pathway.
The ABR is performed by pasting electrodes on the head—similar to electrodes placed around the heart when an electrocardiogram is run—and recording brain wave activity in response to sound. The person being tested rests quietly or sleeps while the test is performed. No response is necessary.
Electrocochleography
Electrocochleography is used for detection of elevated inner ear pressure (endolymphatic hydrops) or for the testing and monitoring of inner ear and auditory nerve function during surgery. Using an electrode placed in the ear canal, or tympanic membrane, this technique records electrical potentials generated in the inner ear and auditory nerve in response to sound stimulation.
Balance Testing
Our audiologists conduct videonystagmography (VNG) evaluations to help determine the status of the peripheral balance system located in the inner ear. Electronystagmography (ENG)/Video Electronystagmography (VNG) are tests which monitor the status of the peripheral and central vestibular system. By using electrodes or goggles, audiologists monitor patients while performing occulomotor tests, positional and positioning tests and caloric tests. Results are then used to evaluate dizziness, vertigo and the function of the acoustic nerve.
Newborn Hearing Screenings
North Carolina requires that all newborns receive a hearing screening before discharge from the hospital. We offer follow up otoacoustic emission (OAE) screenings to follow up with results that were obtained during their initial newborn hearing screening.