Electrocochleography

Electrocochleography (ECochG or ECoG) is a technique used in audiology to measure the electrical potentials generated in the inner ear and auditory nerve during the early stages of hearing. This technique is often used to diagnose Meniere's disease, auditory neuropathy, and other conditions affecting the inner ear and auditory nerve.

Overview

Electrocochleography involves the placement of an electrode either on the tympanic membrane (transtympanic ECochG) or in the ear canal (extratympanic ECochG). The electrode records the electrical activity generated by the hair cells and nerve fibers in the inner ear in response to sound. The recorded potentials include the cochlear microphonic (CM), the summating potential (SP), and the action potential (AP).

Procedure

The procedure for electrocochleography is relatively simple and can be performed in an outpatient setting. The patient is seated comfortably and a small electrode is placed either on the tympanic membrane or in the ear canal. A series of sounds are then presented to the ear and the electrical responses are recorded. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Uses

Electrocochleography is used primarily to diagnose Meniere's disease, a condition characterized by vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. It can also be used to diagnose auditory neuropathy, a condition in which the nerve fibers in the inner ear do not properly transmit sound information to the brain. In addition, ECochG can be used to monitor the health of the inner ear during surgeries that may put it at risk, such as cochlear implant surgery.

Limitations

While electrocochleography is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of inner ear and auditory nerve disorders, it does have some limitations. The procedure is invasive, especially when the electrode is placed on the tympanic membrane. It also requires a high level of cooperation from the patient, as movement can interfere with the recording. In addition, the results of ECochG can be influenced by factors such as the patient's age and the presence of middle ear disease.

See also

• Audiology
• Meniere's disease
• Auditory neuropathy
• Cochlear implant

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