Uses of ultrasound in audiology

Use of diagnostic ultrasound has received little attention in the field of audiology. Recent advances in technology and smaller probe sizes have led to recent strides in development of this procedure for assessment of the middle ear (A and B scan) and evaluation of basilar cerebral arteries (transcranial Doppler). Theory, procedures, and instrumentation are described for evaluation of middle ear structures, determination of middle ear fluid and obtaining precise size and distance measurements. Audiologists are well suited to the study and application of diagnostic ultrasound by virtue of their training in sound propagation, acoustics, functional anatomy, and current involvement in the evaluation of the vestibular system.