Stapedial Reflex and Ears With High Static Acoustic Admittance

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate modified acoustic reflex diagnostic protocols for a group of individuals ( n = 9) with high peak compensated static acoustic admittance (Y tm ) tympanograms. Method A modified procedure designed to improve acoustic stapedius reflex threshold (ASRT) measurements in individuals with high-admittance tympanograms was employed in both an experimental and a control group. ASRTs were measured at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kHz, ipsilateral and contralateral. Measurements were obtained within each condition for 7 ear canal pressures that were set to 0, ±50, ±100, and ±150 daPa (relative to tympanometric peak pressure [TPP]). Results Though measuring ASRTs at −50 daPa (relative to TPP) in the high-admittance and normal groups did not result in significantly better thresholds than at TPP, the absent reflex rate was reduced when the ear canal pressure was changed by −50 daPa during ASRT measurements. Conclusions Based on this sample, it is suggested that a patient presenting with high peak compensated static acoustic admittance (peak Y tm ≥ 2.1 mmho) undergo ASRT evaluation with the ear canal pressure set to −50 daPa (relative to TPP).