Pure Tone Audiometry

What is pure tone audiometry?

Pure tone audiometry is a hearing test used to determine the presence or absence of hearing loss. If hearing loss is present, the audiologist will be able to determine both type and degree of hearing loss.

What should I expect?

You will be seated in a soundproof room, with headphones on or in (we use insert earphones as standard) your ears, and a bone conduction headband on your head. Your audiologist will be seated on the outside of the sound booth and manipulate the audiometry equipment while testing your hearing.

There are two parts to this test.

• Your audiologist will first test to see if you are able to hear a variety of different pitches. You will be asked to push a button or raise your hand when you hear the different tones.
• This part of the test examines air conduction and bone conduction. Both the headphones for air conduction testing and the headband with the oscillator are placed behind your ear for bone conduction testing.

Your audiologist will compare the results of the two types of conduction to determine which part of your auditory system is responsible for the loss.

How long does the test take?

20 to 25 minutes.

How will I receive my results?

Your audiologist will review your test results with you when your testing is completed.

Depending on your result, your audiologist will recommend further testing, an otology consult, or discuss the possibility of using hearing aid technology to improve your hearing.