BAER, or Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response, is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the auditory function of the brainstem. This non-invasive procedure offers crucial insights into hearing ability and auditory nerve function, aiding healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing hearing loss in infants and young children. Let’s delve into how BAER testing is utilized.
About BAER Testing
BAER testing measures the brain’s response to auditory stimuli, assessing the integrity of the auditory pathways from the inner ear to the brainstem. This provides essential information about the function of the auditory nerve and brainstem structures involved in hearing.
During BAER testing, electrodes are placed on the scalp to record electrical activity generated by the auditory pathways in response to sounds, typically clicks or tones presented through headphones. The patient is usually awake and alert during this procedure, which takes about 30 to 60 minutes. This test is particularly useful when other hearing tests are not effective. Most infants have normal hearing, with only three out of 1,000 newborns being born with moderate hearing loss.
As the auditory stimuli are presented, the electrodes detect the brain’s electrical responses. These responses are then amplified, filtered and displayed on a computer monitor. The doctor analyzes these responses to assess the integrity of the auditory nerves and identify any abnormalities and hearing loss.
Preparations and Recovery
BAER testing usually requires minimal preparation and is considered safe and well-tolerated by most patients. However, there are a few important considerations:
- Clothing: The infant should wear clothing that allows easy access to the scalp for electrode placement.
- Post-procedure: After BAER testing, normal activities can be resumed without any restrictions. There are no specific post-procedure instructions or recovery period associated with this test.
BAER testing plays a vital role in diagnosing hearing loss and evaluating auditory function in patients of all ages. By measuring the brain’s response to auditory stimuli, this non-invasive procedure provides valuable insights into the integrity of the auditory pathways and helps guide treatment decisions for various auditory conditions.
To learn more about hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test for you or a loved one, contact Southwestern Hearing & Balance today.