What is involved in audiometric bone conduction testing?

Audiometric bone conduction testing specifically involves testing hearing sensitivity through the inner ear using a bone oscillator. This method allows for the assessment of auditory function by bypassing the outer and middle ear structures. By placing a bone vibrator against the skull, usually on the mastoid process or forehead, vibrations stimulate the cochlea directly. This helps in determining how well the inner ear and auditory nerve are functioning without interference from potential issues in the conductive pathways.

Bone conduction testing is particularly useful in diagnosing types of hearing loss. By comparing bone conduction results to air conduction results, audiologists can differentiate between conductive hearing loss (where sound transmission through the outer or middle ear is impaired) and sensorineural hearing loss (where the inner ear or auditory nerve is affected). Thus, this method is essential for a comprehensive understanding of a patient's hearing capabilities.