Bone Conduction Audiometry
A hearing test that delivers sound vibrations directly to the cochlea via a bone oscillator placed on the mastoid process or forehead, bypassing the outer and middle ear.
Full Definition
Bone conduction audiometry measures the sensitivity of the sensorineural pathway by transmitting vibratory stimuli through the skull directly to the inner ear, circumventing any conductive component. Thresholds obtained are plotted on an audiogram using bracket symbols (< for right, > for left). Comparing bone conduction thresholds with air conduction thresholds reveals the presence and size of an air–bone gap, which is diagnostically essential for differentiating conductive from mixed hearing loss. Editors must ensure that bone conduction results are consistently distinguished from air conduction results in both text descriptions and audiogram legends. Proper symbol notation and laterality labelling are critical accuracy checks in audiological reports.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the transducer type (mastoid vs. forehead) when editing clinical reports, as placement affects threshold values.
In Context
- "Bone conduction audiometry thresholds were within normal limits bilaterally, indicating a purely conductive pathology." — Audiological diagnostic report
- "Editors should confirm that bone conduction symbols are correctly differentiated from air conduction symbols in all audiogram figures." — Editorial style guide for audiology publications