Name of the Procedure:

Electrocochleography (ECochG)

Summary

Electrocochleography is a diagnostic test used to measure the electrical potentials generated in the inner ear (cochlea) and auditory nerve in response to sound stimulation. It helps in the evaluation of certain hearing disorders and balance issues.

Purpose

Electrocochleography is primarily used to diagnose conditions like Ménière's disease, endolymphatic hydrops, and other disorders affecting the inner ear. The goals are to assess the function of the cochlea and auditory nerve and to help guide treatment decisions.

Indications

• Persistent vertigo or dizziness
• Hearing loss not explained by other tests
• Suspected Ménière's disease
• Monitoring inner ear conditions that could worsen over time

Preparation

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol for 24 hours before the test as they can affect inner ear function.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any medications; some may need to be adjusted.
• No fasting is generally required, but specific instructions will be given by your healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies down in a comfortable, relaxed position.
2. Electrodes are placed on the forehead and near the ear being tested.
3. A soft electrode may be placed in the ear canal to pick up the cochlea's electrical responses.
4. Sounds, usually clicks or tone bursts, are played through earphones.
5. The electrodes record the cochlea's responses to these sounds.
6. The procedure is painless and typically involves no sedation.

Tools used include electrodes, specialized earphones, and a computer to record and interpret the results.

Duration

The test generally takes about 60-90 minutes, including preparation and recording time.

Setting

It is typically performed in a hospital outpatient clinic, specialized audiology clinic, or an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) office.

Personnel

• An audiologist or a technician with special training in auditory testing
• An ENT specialist may be involved for interpretive consultation

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks
• Rarely, slight discomfort from the electrodes being placed in the ear canal
• Possible mild irritation on the skin from the electrode adhesive

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of inner ear disorders
• Helps in planning appropriate treatments
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort
• Results can lead to a better understanding and management of symptoms

Recovery

• No specific recovery time; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Post-procedure, the audiologist will explain the findings and next steps.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss detailed results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing, which measures the hearing nerve's response to sounds.
• Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP) testing for balance issues.

• MRI or CT scans if structural anomalies are suspected.

  Pros of Electrocochleography:

• Direct measurement of cochlear function.
• Very informative for specific conditions like Ménière's disease.

Cons of Alternatives:

• ABR assesses the auditory pathway but not the cochlea specifically.
• Imaging tests don't provide functional data about hearing.

Patient Experience

Patients may hear clicking sounds and feel slight pressure or tickling from the electrode in the ear canal. The test is painless, and most patients find it easy to tolerate. Pain management or comfort measures are typically unnecessary, as discomfort is minimal.