Storage of audiometric data - online - with a small computer

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Medical Informatics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Traditional audiometric data management is often paper-based, leading to potential data loss and retrieval challenges.
• The integration of digital technologies in audiology is crucial for efficient data handling and analysis.
• Accurate audiometric measurements are essential for diagnosing hearing impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a system for the online storage and retrieval of audiometric measuring data.
• To demonstrate the capability of displaying and managing audiometric data digitally.
• To facilitate the integration of various audiological test results within a single digital record.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an audiometer with serial output, a DEC PDP 11/03 computer, and a DEC VT 55 graphic terminal for data acquisition and storage.
• Implemented a system for real-time display and control of audiometric data, including pure tone and speech audiograms.
• Integrated suprathreshold tests and impedance measurements into the digital audiogram display.

Main Results:

• Audiometric data, including pure tone and speech audiograms, can be stored, displayed, and controlled in real-time.
• The system allows for the inclusion of suprathreshold test results and impedance measurements alongside audiograms.
• Computer-supported masking aids and associated data (cross-heard values, masking noise intensities) are stored.
• Digital data can be outputted as hardcopies or four-colored plotter prints, and statistical groupings are possible.

Conclusions:

• The developed system provides an efficient method for online storage and management of audiometric data.
• Digital audiogram display and integration of various test results enhance data accessibility and interpretation.
• The system supports advanced features like computer-assisted masking and facilitates statistical analysis of audiological data.