The application of acoustic impedance measurements to pediatric clinical practice.

This article provides background information on acoustic impedance testing and illustrates utilization of test results in pediatric clinical practice. Acoustic impedance measurement devices are presently being used successfully by hearing screening programs and by otorhinolaryngologists in clinical and hospital settings. As a diagnostic tool, the acoustic impedance bridge can have particular applicability in dealing withe young children and other difficult-to-test populations. Impedance measurements can provide physicians with objective information about the condition of the middle ear, oftentimes more accurately than either otoscopic examination or standard audiometry. The technique described can assist physicians in diagnosing middle-ear diseases and in monitoring the effects of otological treatment.