waveforms, at how long it takes each wave to occur, the distance between certain waves and the shape and height of the waves. The waves or responses of the two ears are compared to each other to further aid diagnosis.

Most commonly, the test is used to verify normal function of auditory pathways. ABRs are often ordered by your physician when there is greater loss of hearing in one ear or if you have complaints of tinnitus (ringing). It can also be used to help determine the degree of hearing loss in infants, young children and other patients who are otherwise unable to provide reliable responses through traditional behavioral hearing tests or when additional confirmation of behavioral test results is needed. The ABR requires no active participation on the part of the patient and can provide reliable information whether the patient is awake or asleep.

ABR is an abbreviation for Auditory Brainstem Response. ABR waveforms (the electrical "waves" of nerve/brain activity in response to sound) can be measured on your skin using measurement electrodes. The responses can be interpreted to yield valuable information about the function of the auditory pathways. In analyzing the ABR, the audiologist and physician look at the presence of the various

For infants, the most reliable results are obtained when the child is sedated or napping. We usually try to schedule this test during the child's morning naptime. It helps if the child can be stimulated during the drive to office to prevent a quick doze in the car seat that might make it difficult to nap once here. Bring a bottle! The basic test takes 15 - 30 minutes.

For adults no preparation is necessary. Threshold testing may take a bit longer. Electrodes are taped to the skin - There are no needles!