Name of the Procedure:

Sensorineural Acuity Level Test (SALT)

Summary

The Sensorineural Acuity Level Test helps to diagnose issues related to hearing loss by measuring the sensitivity of the auditory nerve. It evaluates the ability to hear different frequencies and determine the extent of hearing impairment.

Purpose

The Sensorineural Acuity Level Test is used to identify sensorineural hearing loss (hearing loss due to issues with the inner ear or the auditory nerve). The goal is to determine the severity of hearing loss and to guide treatment planning, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants.

Indications

• Persistent hearing loss or inability to hear high-pitched sounds.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
• Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
• Sudden hearing loss without an apparent cause.

Preparation

• No special preparation or fasting required.
• Remove any hearing aids or ear devices prior to the test.
• Ensure ears are free from wax blockage, assessed by a basic ear exam if necessary.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: The audiologist reviews the patient's medical history and symptoms.
2. Placement of Headphones: The patient is seated comfortably and headphones are placed over their ears.
3. Sound Presentation: A series of tones at various frequencies and volumes are played.
4. Response Recording: The patient is asked to signal whenever they hear a sound, typically by pressing a button.
5. Bone Conduction Test: A small device might be placed behind the ear to send vibrations through the bone to test inner ear function.

• Tools: Audiometer, headphones, bone conduction vibrator.
• Anesthesia: None required.

Duration

Approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

The test is performed in a quiet, soundproof room in an outpatient clinic or an audiologist's office.

Personnel

• Certified Audiologist
• Audiology Technician (optional)

Risks and Complications

• The procedure is non-invasive with no significant risks.
• Rarely, discomfort from the headphones or bone conduction device.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of the type and extent of hearing loss.
• Aids in developing a targeted treatment plan.
• Helps to monitor progression of hearing loss over time.

Recovery

• No recovery time needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the test.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on results.

Alternatives

• Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test: Measures sound waves produced in the inner ear. Useful for infants.
• Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test: Tests hearing pathways from the ear to the brain, often used for infants or those unable to cooperate with traditional tests.
• Pure-Tone Audiometry: Similar to SALT but less detailed in specific sensorineural aspects.

Patient Experience

• Non-invasive and painless.
• Patients may experience slight discomfort from wearing headphones.
• Clear instructions will be given throughout to ensure patient comfort and accurate results.