Audiometric Evaluation Research Articles

Knowledge, Perception and Attitude of Sound Engineers to Hearing Conservation Programme in Oyo State, Nigeria

Objectives: Noise is everywhere in all nations of the world, but the rate as well as mechanisms of exposure differ according to the nature of such an environment. High noise in work place leads to hearing loss that has serious and long lasting health implication on the affected. Hence, efforts are being made to facilitate reduction of the impact of workplace noise among workers that perform their duties in risky noise zone through hearing conservation programme. However, one cannot conclude on the reaction to this programme by workers without empirical basis. Thus, this study investigated the influence of knowledge and perception of hearing conservation programme on attitude of sound engineers in Oyo State, Nigeria. Methodology: The study employed descriptive survey research design with 250 sound engineers purposively selected. The instruments used in this study were sound meter level and hearing conservation awareness scale (HCAS) adapted from Purdue University hearing conservation programme with reliability of 0.72 using cronbach alpha measure. Results: Three hypotheses were tested and the results revealed that there was significant positive relationship between knowledge and perception of sound engineers and their attitude towards hearing conservation programme, knowledge and perception of sound engineers jointly predict their attitude towards hearing conservation programme and perception of sound engineers contributed mostly to the attitudes of sound engineers to hearing conservation programme. Conclusion: The study has been able to establish that the knowledge and perception of the sound engineers about hearing conservation have positive influence on their attitude and the practice of same conservation protocol. Therefore, health-related workshop, sensitization, awareness and education on the need/practice of hearing conservation, as well as baseline audiometric evaluation should be organised for workers, especially the sound engineers and a host of other industrial employees who work more 8hours per day in the noisy areas within their places of work.

Genetic Resonance: Dissecting the Heritability and Genetic Correlations of Human Hearing Acuity.

This study presents a frequency-specific, pedigree-based assessment of hearing acuity heritability. We analyzed 34 Utah Centre d'Etude du Polymorphisme Humain (CEPH) pedigrees comprising 464 individuals, using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and audiometric evaluations. Our analysis reveals a general decline in narrow-sense heritability as frequency increases. When calculated using the Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines (SOLAR) software package, narrow-sense heritability estimates drop from 51% at 250Hz to 30% at 8000Hz. Genetic correlations (Rho(G)), the degree to which genetic variation in one trait correlates with another, are higher for hearing acuity at similar frequencies. For example, Rho(G) between 250Hz and 500Hz is 0.80, and Rho(G) between 6000Hz and 8000Hz is 0.91. In contrast, frequencies distant from each other exhibit decreased Rho(G) with a genetic correlation of only 0.21 for hearing acuity at frequencies 250Hz and 8000Hz. This assessment of the genetics underlying hearing acuity in a family-based design provides new details of genetic factors influencing hearing acuity in a frequency-specific approach.

Relation Between Glycated Hemoglobin Level and Hearing Loss in Type 2 Diabetic Patients.

Glycemic control and the efficacy of therapy in diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes during the previous 2-3 months are usually evaluated by measuring the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Our aim is to study the correlation between serum glycated hemoglobin level (HbA1c) and the hearing thresholds in diabetic patients. A case-control study was conducted in the Audio-Vestibular Medicine Unit, xxxx University on 82 subjects. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: the first group consisted of 42 diabetic patients and the second group consisted of 40 healthy subjects. All the participants underwent a pure tone audiogram and speech audiometric evaluation. All participants also underwent diabetes laboratory assessments, including fasting blood glucose serum level and serum HbA1c level. The average hearing threshold at frequencies from 250 Hz to 16 000 Hz in both groups was calculated and correlated to different variables. Diabetic patients showed higher hearing thresholds than those of the control group, with an increasing tendency of elevation of the hearing threshold levels toward the higher frequencies in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the hearing thresholds between patients with diabetes < 5 years (20 subjects) and those with a duration of ≤ 5 years (22 subjects). Also, there was no statistically significant difference in the average hearing thresholds among type 2 diabetic patients based on fasting blood sugar level results, except at 16 000 Hz. Poor glycemic control status [Hb A1c ≥ 7%] is significantly associated with elevated hearing thresholds.

Audiometric Outcomes in Chronic Otitis Media with Mastoid Involvement: A Five-Year Clinical Overview.

Background/Objectives. Otomastoiditis, an inflammatory condition affecting the middle ear and mastoid cells, poses significant risks for hearing impairment. This study aimed to analyze the clinical presentations, anatomical variations, and audiometric outcomes associated with acute and chronic otomastoiditis over a five-year period at the ENT Clinic of the Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Craiova. Methods. A retrospective clinical-statistical analysis was conducted on 145 patients aged 2 to 78 years, who were treated for otomastoiditis. The study involved a comprehensive review of clinical and audiometric data, with a focus on the type of hearing loss (conductive or mixed), audiometric thresholds, and the relationship between the anatomical form of the disease and the severity of hearing loss. Results. The majority of cases (93.83%) were chronic otomastoiditis, with 66.89% of patients presenting with mixed hearing loss and 33.10% with conductive hearing loss. Audiometric assessments revealed significant air conduction deficits, particularly at low and mid-range frequencies, with losses averaging 50-55 dB in cases of conductive hearing loss. Chronic cases demonstrated notable bone conduction impairments, indicating progressive cochlear damage. Statistical analysis identified a moderate correlation between the anatomical form of the disease and the severity of hearing loss, particularly in patients with cholesteatomatous-suppurative forms. Conclusions. This study underlines the critical need for the early and precise diagnosis of otomastoiditis, supported by audiometric evaluations. Our findings emphasize the substantial risk of progressive cochlear damage in chronic cases, underscoring the necessity for timely intervention to mitigate long-term hearing loss. These results offer valuable insights for clinicians, potentially guiding improved therapeutic approaches and contributing to enhanced patient outcomes in managing chronic otomastoiditis.

The Impact of Slight to Mild Hearing Loss on Academic Performance and Behavior of 9-15-Year-Olds.

To examine the impact of slight to mild hearing loss in children by studying its association with academic performance and behavioral problems. This study was embedded within a prospective birth cohort in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Participants underwent audiometric and behavioral evaluations between ages 9-11 (April 2012-October 2015) and 13-15 (May 2017-September 2019). At 13-15, a multiple linear regression was conducted to explore the relationship between hearing acuity and both academic and behavioral outcomes. A cross-lagged analysis using data from ages 9 to 11 investigated bidirectional associations between hearing loss and behavioral problems. The cross-sectional part of the study involved 4688 participants at the age of 13-15 years. The relative risk for children with slight to mild hearing loss of being placed in a lower educational level compared with the highest level was 1.52 (95% confidence interval (CI) [1.14, 2.02]). Among boys, elevated high-frequency pure-tone average (HPTA) was associated with a higher total problem score (per 1 dB HPTA: β = 0.01; 95% CI [0.00, 0.02]). For girls, elevated low-frequency pure-tone average (LPTA) was associated with a higher attention problem score (per 1 dB LPTA: β = 0.02; 95% CI [0.01, 0.02]). Cross-lagged effects showed that participants with increased pure-tone averages in low frequencies at 9-11 years had more social problems at ages 13-15 years (Z-score difference: 0.01; 95% CI [0.01, 0.02]). Elevated hearing thresholds in slight to mild hearing loss were linked to poorer academic performance and increased behavioral problems. 2 (prospective cohort study) Laryngoscope, 2024.

Management of sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A time-critical diagnosis.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is an otologic emergency requiring urgent medical attention andcare. This article, based on up-to-date evidence and clinical guidelines, aims to equip general practitioner (GP) specialists with a structured and practical approach to SSNHL management, emphasising the need for prompt evaluation and appropriate interventions. From initial evaluation to treatment strategies and follow-up, this guide offers a step-by-step framework to optimise patient care and improve outcomes in patients suffering SSNHL. Distinguishing SSNHL from conductive hearing loss (CHL), with early identification and prompt initiation of high-dose corticosteroid therapy, are key considerations for the management of SSNHL. Appropriate referrals when indicated for audiometric evaluation, emergency and/or otolaryngology services are also essential. Furthermore, this study aims to outline emerging therapies including intratympanic steroid administration, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and their potential roles in augmenting standard treatment approaches.

Objective audiometric evaluation of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional survey in South West Nigeria

Aims: Diabetes mellitus affects more than 450 million people around the world. The relationship between diabetes and sensorineural hearing loss has been an area of interest. The aim of this study is to evaluate hearing loss, among type 2 diabetes diagnosed in the endocrinology unit of a private tertiary health facility in South West Nigeria. Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study carried out among type 2 diabetic patients and normal healthy non-diabetic individuals as control. A total of 120 participants were recruited for the test and control. Otoacoustic emission and auditory steady-state response audiometry were carried out on all the participants. Result: The total number of study participants was 120 (60 for test and control) with an age range of 30–79 years for the test and 20–80 years for the control. Otoacoustic emission showed passes for both ears, 61.7% pass in both ears for the test group and 76.7% pass in both ears for the control group. 21.7% of the test and control were referred for both ears. 16.6% of the test group was referred in one ear compared to 1.7% in the control group. Auditory steady-state response (ASSR) audiometry showed mild to profound hearing loss in all test groups while in the control group 20% had normal hearing. Moderate to moderately severe hearing loss in at least one ear was 38.4% in the test ear compared to 16.7% in the control group. Conclusion: Hearing loss is an established complication of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate regular hearing screening for patients with diabetes for early detection, counseling, and rehabilitation for those with disabling hearing loss.

Exploration of preschool hearing screening at primary healthcare centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

The hearing status of children should be examined throughout early childhood, even if they have passed the newborn hearing loss because hearing loss can occur at any time and may affect their ability to learn. Preschool hearing screening (PHS) is vital to continue screening throughout early childhood. The current practice of PHS in the primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in Saudi Arabia is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate PHS in the PHCs. This cross-sectional descriptive study used an in-person-administered questionnaire to collect data. A total of 106 out of 120 participants (male = 61; female = 45) representing the PHCs in Riyadh were interviewed. Most of the participants were aged 31–40 years and held a bachelor's degree as the highest academic qualification with limited years of experience. PHS was mostly performed through subjective measures by asking the parents (71.7%) and the child (65.1%). The audiometric evaluation was conducted for preschool children in only half of the PHCs. General practitioners and nurses usually perform PHS. Substantial gaps in the practice of PHS were identified. The lack of training and appropriate instruments and the need for audiological services were the main challenges. Incorporating robust and objective protocols for PHS into the educational system is a valuable strategy for identifying hearing loss early and reducing its impact through the establishment of effective intervention plans.

A Comparative Study of Surgical Outcome Following Tympanoplasty with or Without Canaloplasty in Adolecent Age Group.

Chronic otitis media (COM) poses significant challenges globally, affecting millions with hearing impairment and associated morbidities. This prospective study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of type I tympanoplasty with and without canaloplasty in adolescent patients with COM, focusing on hearing improvement and graft success rates. Sixty-eight patients aged 11-18 years, diagnosed with inactive mucosal disease and conductive hearing loss, were enrolled from 01 January 2022 to 01 July 2023. They were randomly assigned to Group A (type I tympanoplasty with canaloplasty, n = 34) or Group B (type I tympanoplasty alone, n = 34). Preoperative and postoperative audiometric evaluations were conducted to assess air-bone gap closure and hearing thresholds. Graft uptake was evaluated at three months post-surgery. Both groups showed significant improvement in hearing postoperatively (p < 0.01). Group A exhibited a higher rate of successful graft uptake (94.11%) compared to Group B (91.17%), though this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.01). Canaloplasty in Group A facilitated enhanced visualization of the tympanic membrane and improved graft placement, contributing to favorable outcomes. The study underscores the potential benefits of combining canaloplasty with type I tympanoplasty in adolescent patients with COM, emphasizing improved hearing outcomes and graft success rates. These findings support the incorporation of canaloplasty to optimize surgical outcomes and enhance patient outcomes in chronic otitis media management.

A Biologic With Otologic Consequences: Analysis of Hearing Loss and Teprotumumab Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System.

To evaluate otologic adverse reactions (OARs), including hearing loss (OARs-HL) among patients taking teprotumumab, a new biologic approved for the treatment of active thyroid eye disease, using publicly available pharmacovigilance reporting data. Retrospective database review. The Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) was queried for cases involving teprotumumab from 2020Q1 to 2023Q1. Patient demographics and adverse reactions (OAR and OAR-HL) were evaluated. Logistic regression was used to predict OAR and OAR-HL, and disproportionality analysis was performed using OpenVigil. A total of 2,109 teprotumumab-AR cases were reported, of which 296 (14.05%; mean age 55.46 yr) were OARs. Of these, 149 (7.06%) reported OAR-HL and 194 (9.20%) reported other OAR (e.g., tinnitus, ear discomfort, vertigo), with 47 (2.23%) reporting both. Disproportionality analysis showed a reported odds ratio (ROR) for OARs-HL of 44.33 (95% confidence interval [CI], 37.40-52.55; p < 0.001). Age was associated with RORs of 1.02 (95% CI, 1.01-1.04) and 1.04 (95% CI, 1.02-1.07) for developing OARs and specifically OARs-HL, respectively (p < 0.01). Age 50 and 65 years and older were associated with RORs of 2.54 (95% CI, 1.16-6.38) and 3.36 (95% CI, 1.75-6.53), respectively, for OARs-HL (p < 0.05). This study using FAERS data suggests an increased risk of OARs, specifically hearing loss, associated with teprotumumab. Increasing age was a significant predictor of OARs. Audiometric counseling and evaluation should be considered with teprotumumab therapy in Graves' orbitopathy patients, especially in older patients.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss among Industrial Workers in North India: A Tale of Various Influencing Factors.

To study the prevalence and determinants of Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) among industrial workers. To access the benefit of Distortion Product Oto Acoustic Emissions (DPOAEs) in its early detection as compared to Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA). Detailed in-person questionnaires were filled followed by general and otological examination viz. local and otoscopic examination. NIHL was assessed by tuning fork test, PTA and DPOAEs. 360 participants aged 20-55 years from 6 industries 4 at noise level of 81-90 dBA and 2 at 91-100 dBA. Prevalence of NIHL at 81-90 dBA and 91-100 dBA was 48% and 59% on PTA. Overall Prevalence from 81 to 100 dBA was 49.45% on PTA and 67% on DPOAEs. NIHL was more prevalent at higher noise level, age group higher than 40 years, duration of service greater than 16 years of exposure and continuous noise type. Noise Induced Permanent Threshold Shift (NIPTS) was found to gradually increase at higher noise level and with increase in duration of service. Noise exposure monitoring at work place, engineering controls to reduce noise levels, provision of hearing protection devices, periodic audiometric evaluation of employees and employee's education regarding NIHL are some of the significant aspects to be considered to prevent NIHL.

Pure Tone Audiometric Evaluation of Hearing Loss among Diabetic Patients in Azare: A Prospective Observational Study

Pure Tone Audiometric Evaluation of Hearing Loss among Diabetic Patients in Azare: A Prospective Observational Study

Incidence of Hearing Loss in Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 1 at a Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital

BackgroundHearing loss has not been thoroughly investigated as a comorbidity in larger cohorts with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). MethodsAvailable audiometric data were reviewed from patients with NF1 seen at a tertiary pediatric hospital to assess prevalence and risk factors for hearing loss. ResultsOf 1172 patients with NF1 seen between 2010 and 2022, 90 had available audiometric data and 48 of 90 patients (53%) had one or more audiogram revealing hearing loss. Those not referred to audiology were presumed to have normal hearing, resulting in a conservative hearing loss estimate of 4% for children and young adults with NF1. Of 90 patients with audiograms, 29 (32%) had conductive loss (CHL), 15 (17%) had sensorineural loss (SNHL), and 3 (3%) had mixed hearing loss. Hearing loss type was undetermined for one patient. For children with CHL, six had permanent CHL secondary to plexiform neurofibroma, 19 CHL were transient due to active middle ear dysfunction, and four CHL cases were indeterminate in etiology. For three children with SNHL or mixed hearing loss, etiology included history of ototoxic chemotherapy and/or family history of SNHL. In the 16 patients with SNHL or mixed hearing loss with more than one audiogram over time, progressive hearing decline was noted in eight of 16, and 26 of 178 hearing thresholds (15%) progressed. ConclusionsOur findings suggest that audiometric evaluations should be considered for at least a subset of children with NF1, given the higher-than-expected rate of hearing loss in patients with NF1 compared with the general population.

Comparative Efficacy of Different Therapeutic Interventions in Eustachian Tube Dysfunctions: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) affects a significant portion of the population, manifesting symptoms that impact the quality of life. Despite the prevalence of ETD, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive studies exploring the condition's dynamics within specific demographic contexts, particularly within Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of ETD across different demographic groups, to evaluate the efficacy of various treatment modalities, and to identify key predictors of treatment response in a Saudi Arabian cohort. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to May 2023 in tertiary care hospitals in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Participants included adults diagnosed with ETD, assessed through clinical symptoms, otoscopic examinations, audiometric evaluations, tympanometry, and the ETDQ-7 questionnaire. The study incorporated advanced diagnostics such as nasopharyngoscopy and pressure equalization tube function tests and involved 154 participants, revealing significant variations in ETD severity, with the 46-60 age group exhibiting the highest mean ETDQ-7 score of 4.85, and urban residents displaying lower severity scores compared to rural counterparts. Pharmacological interventions were most effective, achieving the highest symptom relief and audiological improvement rates of 87.78%. Multivariate regression highlighted age, geographic location, and treatment modality as key predictors of treatment efficacy, with notable interaction effects between climate conditions and treatment types influencing outcomes. The findings underscore the heterogeneity in ETD presentation and the differential efficacy of treatment modalities.

The Influence of Skin Pigmentation on Cochlear Functioning: A Study on Individuals with Normal Hearing Sensitivity

Background and Aim: Melanocytes are cells in the skin, hair, and eyes that generate pigment called melanin, which is primarily responsible for the pigmentation of these structures. These melanocytes, known as the Cochlear Melanocyte, are also present in the human ears (especially in the cochlea) and play a significant role in fostering endocochlear potential and preventing the odds of hearing loss. The current study investigated the relationship of skin pigment with cochlear function through distortion product otoacoustic emission in Indian skin type. Methods: A total of 120 participants aged between 17 to 25 were included using a purposive sampling technique. The subjects were further grouped based on a questionnaire on Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype (FSP) developed by Thomas Fitzpatrick (1975) and categorized as type III- type VI suitable for Indian skin types. Along with routine audiometric evaluations, the cochlear functioning was assessed using distortion product otoacoustic emissions. The standard group research design was used, and as data was normally distributed, multivariate analysis of variance was used to compare across groups. Results: The results of multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) showed no significant differences across the four groups for both amplitude and the slope of distortion product otoacoustic emissions. Conclusion: The present study using otoacoustic emissions revealed that the skin pigmentation did not affect cochlear functioning in the Indian population (type III through type VI) as seen in type I and II. Keywords: Melanocytes; hearing loss; cochlear function; skin pigmentation

Reliability of an Android Based Free Application for Assessment of Hearing Loss in Adults.

Hearing loss is an important health care concern. Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) is considered Gold Standard for audiometric evaluations though, there exist a huge variance between the demand and the actual services available. As smartphones are mobile, applications are upgradable, results are reproducible, the mobile applications may offer a good screening tool, especially in remote areas.There are many smartphone-based hearing applications which are already in use. However, effectiveness of such applications needs to be validated. To evaluate the reliability of 'Hearing Test' a phone application against PTA for assessment of hearing thresholds in adults. We conducted a diagnostic study on a heterogenous group of 250 individuals irrespective of their hearing levels. The hearing thresholds for both ears were measured by PTA and phone app and then compared statistically. The agreement between the methods were statistically significant with respect to diagnosing hearing loss and the degree of hearing loss. Though, PTA remains Gold Standard for hearing evaluation but freely available, highlyreproducible & specific 'Hearing Test' application could be used as a screening tool in remote areasand may help bridging the gap between the requirement and availability of diagnostic audiometric services.

Long-Term Surgical Outcome of Class A and B Tympanomastoid Paragangliomas.

To analyze the long-term facial function as well as overall postoperative condition in surgically treated tympanomastoid PGL patients. Retrospective study. The medical records of patients with surgically managed class A and B tympanomastoid PGLs between 1983 and 2023 were thoroughly evaluated. Our center has treated a total of 213 cases of tympanomastoid PGL surgically. The mean age of patients was 54, and the male-to-female ratio was 1:6. The most common symptoms at presentation were hearing loss (80%), pulsatile tinnitus (77%), and vertigo (15%). According to the modified Fisch classification, 45% of the cases were classified as class A (A1 and A2), while 55% were classified as class B (B1, B2, and B3). All class A and most class B1 and B2 tumors were removed either with transcanal or retroauricular-transcanal approaches. However, more advanced class B3 lesions were removed with subtotal petrosectomy (SP) along with middle ear obliteration. Facial nerve outcome was excellent in all class A and B cases, while chances of postoperative paresis slightly increased with the size and extent of the tumor (p < 0.05). The hearing outcome is excellent for class A1, A2, B1, and B2 tumors, whereas more advanced class B3 cases have a loss of air conduction (AC) and increased bone conduction (BC) threshold (p < 0.05). Complete surgical removal was achieved in 97% of our cases. The most common late complication was permanent TM perforation (7%), and the recurrence rate was 3%. Tympanomastoid PGL represents the most common neoplasm of the middle ear space. The most frequent presenting symptoms include pulsatile tinnitus and hearing loss, whereas the presence of retrotympanic mass was evident in all cases at the time of initial otoscopic evaluation. Proper documentation of facial function and audiometric evaluation are crucial elements of preoperative workup. The most preferred preoperative radiologic examination is high-resolution computer tomography (HRCT), whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with or without gadolinium enhancement is reserved for cases with a dilemma of carotid artery or jugular bulb involvement. The main goal of tympanomastoid PGL treatment is complete disease removal with preservation of hearing and facial functions. Surgical treatment remains the preferred treatment modality with the benefits of complete disease removal, lower rate of recurrence and complication, and acceptable postoperative hearing level. Here, we present our 40 years of experience, which, to the very best of our knowledge, is the largest series of tympanomastoid PGL in the English literature.

Prevalence and predictors of high-frequency hearing loss among mine workers in Gujarat, western India: a cross-sectional study on the need to implement a comprehensive hearing conservation program.

High-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) stands as a prevalent occupational morbidity globally, with numerous associated risk factors, some of which are modifiable. In the context of a comprehensive hearing conservation program, the initial steps involve early screening and identification of workers with these modifiable risk factors, aiming to reduce the prevalence of hearing loss. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of HFHL and determine its predictors among mine workers. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 226 mine workers in ten open-cast mines in Gujarat state, the western part of India, in November 2020. We collected data on socio-demography, addiction, occupation history and comorbidities, along with anthropometric, blood pressure, and blood sugar measurements. Audiometric evaluations using a portable diagnostic audiometer were employed to assess HFHL, defined as a hearing threshold exceeding 25 decibels (dB) at high frequencies (3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000Hz). A generalized linear model (GLM) with a binomial family was performed to determine the predictors significantly predicting HFHL after adjusting for confounding variables. The prevalence of HFHL was 35% (95% CI: 29-42%) in our study setting. Office workers demonstrated a prevalence of 19%, whereas other job categories displayed a higher prevalence of 42%, resulting in a significant prevalence difference of 23% and a prevalence ratio of 2.2. The GLM analysis revealed that variables, such as noise exposure during work [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 2.3 (95% CI: 1.2-4.7, p=0.018)] and noise exposure duration [aPR 1.1 (95% CI: 1.0-1.1, p=0.042)], were significant predictors of HFHL. In our study setting, mine workers exhibited a high prevalence of HFHL, with exposure to workplace noise and duration being modifiable predictors. Because HFHL advances slowly and is generally undetected by the individual, we recommend periodic testing using audiometry to identify it among mine workers and, if possible, shifting them from mining activities to office. Furthermore, we advocate for the implementation of a comprehensive hearing conservation program to the extent possible.

Audiometric evaluation and diagnosis of conductive hearing loss

Definitive diagnosis of conductive hearing loss requires a comprehensive audiological evaluation by a skilled audiologist. Threshold testing is performed with both air and bone conduction stimuli and frequently necessitates masking strategies. The fundamental aspects of bone conduction audiometry will be reviewed. Patients with bilateral conductive or mixed hearing loss need advanced strategies, such as the Rainville estimation method to acquire ear specific thresholds.1 One hallmark of conductive hearing loss is preserved word recognition due to intact cochlear function. Immittance testing is another important component to comprehensive audiometry and can provide important information about the site of the conductive lesion. This article will review the fundamental aspects of the audiologic assessment of conductive hearing loss and touch on areas of recent research advances, including the assessment of high frequency conductive hearing loss using specialized bone conduction hardware.

Small Fenestra Stapedotomy in Comparison to Large Fenestra Stapedectomy in Improving Hearing Loss Caused by Otosclerosis: A Retrospective Study

Background: A retrospective study done on all otosclerotic patients who underwent stapes surgery between January 2019 and June 2022 in the department of otorhinolaryngology in a tertiary care hospital in North India. Material and Methods: Fifty four patients were enrolled in the study. The inclusion criteria of the study included patients in the age group of 18–55 years with conductive hearing loss and an intact tympanic membrane and an air–bone gap (ABG) of more than 30 dB. Diagnosis of otosclerosis is based on clinical history of progressive hearing loss and audiometric evaluation. Pure Tone Average shows typical conductive hearing loss pattern. Aim and Objective: Preoperative and 6 months postoperative audiological evaluation was conducted to understand the difference in hearing. The same surgical technique was used in all the cases, except that the dimension of the foot plate removed was different. Results: The mean age of patients in years who underwent stapes surgery was 31.6 ± 6.4 years. Out of the 54 patients, 24 (44.44%) were male and 30 (55.56%) were female. The number of patients who underwent large fenestra stapedectomy was 30 (55.56%) and who underwent small fenestra stapedotomy was 24 (44.44%). There was a significant improvement in the hearing parameters (PTA and ABG) in both the groups after surgery, but there was no significant difference between the small fenestra and large fenestra groups in terms of improvement in PTA and ABG. Conclusion: In conclusion, both small fenestra stapedotomy and large fenestra stapedectomy are safe and effective procedures for improving conductive hearing loss in otosclerosis patients.