An OAE test assesses the function of outer hair cells in the cochlea. It requires no active participation from the patient. An OAE machine analyzes the outer hair cell function by sending a sound into the ear. When a sound is sent into a normal functioning ear system, the outer hair cells will generate sounds (otoacoustic emissions) that can be measured by a sensitive microphone placed in the ear canal. If returning sounds are not detected by the device, the patient needs to have additional hearing testing to verify hearing status.