Intermediate
Technical
IVT
conductive hearing loss
Hearing impairment caused by problems in the outer or middle ear that block sound transmission.
Full Definition
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are prevented from reaching the inner ear due to obstruction or dysfunction in the external auditory canal, tympanic membrane, or middle ear structures. This type of hearing loss typically affects all frequencies equally and can often be medically or surgically treated. Common causes include earwax impaction, otitis media, otosclerosis, or tympanic membrane perforation. Unlike sensorineural hearing loss, bone conduction thresholds remain normal.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as a compound adjective. Do not abbreviate in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The conductive hearing loss was successfully treated with tympanoplasty surgery." — Post-operative note
- "Bone conduction thresholds were normal, confirming a purely conductive hearing loss." — Audiological interpretation
Also known as
conductive loss
transmission hearing loss
Contrasted with
sensorineural hearing loss
Don't confuse with
sensorineural hearing loss
mixed hearing loss