RESUMEN
We evaluated the effect of electrode montage on the spectrum of the infant auditory brainstem response (ABR). Spectral profiles of ipsilateral, contralateral, noncephalic, and horizontal recordings obtained in response to slow and fast repetition rates and at low and high stimulus intensities were also evaluated. Findings indicate that the spectrum of the infant ABR is dominated by low-frequency energy, maximal below 200 Hz. The spectra of ipsilateral and noncephalic recordings are the strongest irrespective of stimulus intensity or repetition rate. Increase in stimulus intensity or repetition rate typically enhances the amount of energy below 200 Hz. These results reinforce the clinical utility of ipsilateral and noncephalic recordings for screening, threshold measurement, and neurodiagnostic purposes.
Asunto(s)
Electrodos , Potenciales Evocados Auditivos del Tronco Encefálico , Adulto , Femenino , Audición/fisiología , Humanos , Recién Nacido , MasculinoRESUMEN
The present study compares ipsilateral, contralateral, horizontal and non-cephalic auditory-evoked brainstem responses (ABR) obtained from normal infants (39-42 weeks' post-conceptional age) to assess their utility in auditory neurodiagnosis. Wave latencies, wave amplitudes and waveform morphology were evaluated at slow and fast repetition rates. Ipsilateral and horizontal recordings obtained with a fast stimulation rate provide best waveform characteristics for neurodiagnostic interpretation. Further enhancement of wave V amplitude and separation of IV-V wave complex may be achieved by using the non-cephalic recording montage. Compromised or low amplitude components on contralateral measurements may confound neurological interpretation.