Auditory nerve and brainstem responses in the newborn and in preschool children

The practicability of recording auditory nerve and brainstem responses during early childhood is demonstrated. This paper reports our experience with two different electrode locations: ear-canal/ear-lobe and ear-lobe/vertex. The test is performed with a light portable stimulus-generating and response-recording system that can easily be brought into wards and nurseries. In most instances, the presence of responses can be assessed using ear-lobe/vertex recordings. There is seldom any need for sedation or general anaesthesia. Testing personnel can be limited to one trained technician. If responses are not detected, ear-canal/ear-lobe recording may be used to clarify the results. General anaesthesia may then be necessary and the presence of a physician will be required for the placement of the canal electrode.