Patent ID: 6295467
Filing Date: 2001-09-25
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A method of detecting a reflex of the human stapedius muscle for a hearing test, in which the reflex is triggered by means of an acoustic test signal of a relatively higher frequency range and with a sound level of at least 65 dB HL; the impedance prior to the reflex and the impedance after the reflex on the tympanic membrane are measured by means of at least one, if necessary longer-lasting measuring signal of a relatively lower frequency range and with a sound level of clearly below 65 dB HL; and compared by forming the difference between the respective measuring signals or measuring signal ranges, comprisingwith omission of any usual measuring signal, using at least two chronologically successive or mutually chronologically overlapping test signals, said overlapping test signals being as identical as possible with respect to their frequency parameters and their sound level; andobtaining information of any possible impedance variation on the tympanic membrane by means of forming the difference between the sound curves produced and registered by said test signals.