[Objective auditory examination of neonates using otoacoustic emissions]

Auditory examination performed by an objective examination method in newborns is aimed to early identify possible permanent auditory defects. Detection of permanent auditory defect already in the first days after birth enables early treatment and rehabilitation with the help of hearing apparatus and later possibly with cochlear implants. The paper presents principles of auditory examinations with the help of otoacoustic emissions and analyzes the results of a screening using otoacoustic emissions performed in a group of 596 newborns and the cause of deafness in a group of 101 prelingually deaf children. On the basis of the results and literature data the authors recommend gradual introduction of universal auditory screening of newborns in Slovak republic. (Tab. 3, Fig. 4, Ref. 13.)