Otoacoustic emission (OAE) testing

You communicate in many different ways. Hearing is an important part of how you communicate with your families, friends and partners.

An otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test at Aurora Health Care is part of our expert audiology care. This test helps tell you how well the inner part of the ear, known as cochlea, is working.

How OAE testing is performed

Otoacoustic emissions testing is a procedure that takes only a few minutes. During the test, a small, soft probe is inserted into the ear canal to emit sounds while recording the ear's response. This process allows your Aurora Health Care audiologist to evaluate the integrity of your inner ear and the functionality of your hair cells, the cells in your ear that are responsible for communicating with the brain.

How the OAE test works

Your ear is composed of three main parts: the outer, middle and inner ear. An OAE test measures otoacoustic emissions, which are subtle sounds generated by the inner ear in response to external sounds.

These emissions are produced when the inner ear's hair cells vibrate. They serve as a vital indicator of auditory health and can be quantified through a simple, noninvasive OAE test.

Advantages of OAE testing for hearing assessment

We provide OAE testing for all ages, including infants and newborns. All testing is done in a sound booth with the latest testing equipment available. Some benefits of OAE testing include:

• Otoacoustic emission testing for infants and newborns: OAE tests are commonly used in newborn hearing screening programs to identify hearing issues in infants shortly after birth.
• Early detection of hearing loss: OAE tests can identify hearing loss in its preliminary stages, often before it becomes noticeable. Early detection and intervention can significantly enhance language and communication development.
• Objective and rapid assessment: Aurora OAE tests provide an objective measurement of hearing function, eliminating the need for the patient's response. The test is quick and straightforward to administer, making it suitable for individuals of all ages, including young children and those with cognitive impairments.

It's important to note that OAE tests have certain limitations. They only check the inner part of the ear, which limits their ability to diagnose specific central auditory processing disorders. As a result, they are often used in conjunction with other audiological tests to provide a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's hearing health.

Aurora Health Care’s OAE Specialists

Our OAE specialists are experienced and provide the most precise and timely assessments for your auditory health.

We provide pediatric hearing assessments for newborns and children, as well as adults. Your Aurora Health Care OAE specialist will utilize the latest tools and techniques to deliver comprehensive otoacoustic emission testing.

If your OAE test reveals any hearing issues, our specialists will offer a comprehensive diagnosis and guide you through the necessary steps to address any hearing concerns.