Acoustic reflex detection using wide-band acoustic reflectance, admittance, and power measurements

The measurement of the acoustic reflex threshold is a basic component of the diagnostic audiological test battery that may subject patients to potentially harmful sound pressures. A wide-band acoustic impedance and reflectance system (D. H. Keefe, R. Ling, & J. C. Bulen, 1992) was investigated as a means of obtaining reflex thresholds at a reduced level and as a means of providing a more complete characterization of the reflex than current clinical methods provide. Reflex thresholds obtained by measuring changes in wide-band admittance, reflectance, and power were at least 8 dB lower than those obtained with the standard clinical technique. These reflex-induced changes were accounted for by a simple oscillator model of the middle ear, assuming that the acoustic reflex results in an increase in stiffness. The results support further investigation of reflectance-based measures of the acoustic reflex as a clinical tool and as a means of studying the reflex mechanism.