What specific aspect does impedance audiometry measure?

Impedance audiometry specifically measures the resistance of the middle ear to sounds and pressure changes in the ear canal. This testing assesses how well sound energy is transmitted through the middle ear, which involves evaluating the mechanical properties of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the ossicles (the tiny bones in the middle ear).

The primary components involved are the mobility of the eardrum and the overall function of the middle ear system in response to variations in air pressure. The outcomes help in diagnosing conditions such as otitis media (middle ear infection), eustachian tube dysfunction, and other issues affecting the middle ear function.

By evaluating the middle ear's impedance, audiologists can infer how well sound can travel from the outer ear to the inner ear, which is crucial for understanding various auditory disorders. This measurement is not about the clarity of sound, hearing ability in varying environments, or amplification in the outer ear, which are different aspects of auditory function.