Correlation of wideband tympanometry with the audiological results in neonates exposed to passive smoke

Abstract

The search for effective methods in audiological diagnosis is a major concern for professionals. The otoacoustic emissions test identifies dysfunction of outer hair cells that affect the cochlea. However, the measurement is influenced by the condition of the middle ear. Wideband tympanometry is a diagnostic procedure able to detect mild middle ear dysfunction not detected by conventional tympanometry, improving the predictive value in identifying changes in the middle ear that affect both otoacoustic emissions and evoked potentials. Recent studies have pointed to reduced auditory responses in passive smokers. Objective: To identify discrete middle ear changes not captured tympanometry that may be associated with changes in otoacoustic emissions and auditory evoked potentials in neonates exposed to secondhand smoke. Methodology: The sample of this study will consist of 100 neonates divided into two groups according to exposure to secondhand smoke. Procedures: the subjects will perform the following test: concentration of urinary cotinine; Transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, distortion product otoacoustic emissions, auditory evoked potentials with stimulation Chirp and wideband tympanometry. Results: The following variables will be analyzed statistically to compare the groups, procedures and evaluated ear. The initial hypothesis of the study is that tympanometry broadband is more sensitive in identifying changes in the middle ear than conventional tympanometry, especially in neonates exposed to secondhand smoke, the results of otoacoustic emissions and auditory evoked potentials should be disadvantaged relative the control group. (AU)