Evaluation of automatic screening tympanometry in the identification of middle ear pathology

This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity of a prototype tympanometric screening instrument. Results from automatic tympanometry and complete electroacoustic impedance measurements (tympanometry, static compliance, and acoustic reflex thresholds) were compared to otologic diagnosis in 53 ears with middle ear pathology. Results suggested a high percentage of agreement between screening tympanometry, results from a complete impedance test battery and pneumatic otoscopy. These findings lend support for theuse of screening tympanometry in school hearing-screening programs and in pediatric practice.