Modified auditory brainstem responses (MABR): Part I--Rationale and normative study

Binaural, rapid rate, ABR stimulation at four intensity levels (MABR) as well as ABR at two intensity levels were carried out in 35 normal subjects. Latency and amplitude relationship with stimulus intensity of wave V of the MABR was extensively studied in these subjects. MABR recording is a rapid, sensitive, non-invasive screening method readily done at the intensive care bedside. Less than 10 minutes is required in addition to the ABR examination time. Normality of the MABR potentials implies a high degree of peripheral auditory and brainstem functional integrity, augmenting information gained with standard ABR technique. Only clinical trials can decide if MABR sensitivity will exceed that of the ABR and prove helpful to diagnosis and patient care.