What is the purpose of air conduction testing?

The purpose of air conduction testing is to determine how well sound travels through all parts of the ear, specifically the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. This type of testing involves the use of headphones or earphones to present sounds at various frequencies and intensities, allowing clinicians to observe how well the auditory system detects and processes sound.

By evaluating the response to these sounds, air conduction testing helps identify the integrity of the entire hearing pathway. If a patient has hearing loss, the results can indicate whether it is due to issues in the outer or middle ear, which are typically conductive losses, or if it originates from the inner ear, which is indicative of sensorineural hearing loss. This comprehensive assessment aids audiologists and hearing care professionals in diagnosing and formulating appropriate treatment plans for individuals with hearing concerns.