CLINICAL METHODS OF HEARING (SOUND) TESTING

Methods of assessing the auditory (hearing) system used in clinical otorhinolaryngology and audiology are an important component of modern medicine. This article provides a detailed review of the main hearing assessment methods widely used in clinical practice — otoscopy, pure-tone audiometry, bone conduction testing, speech audiometry, tympanometry (impedance audiometry), acoustic reflex testing, otoacoustic emissions (OAE), and auditory brainstem response (ABR). The principle, technique, indications, limitations, and clinical significance of each method are described. The research results section presents data on the effectiveness of these methods in combination for determining the type of hearing loss (conductive, sensorineural, mixed), newborn hearing screening, and diagnostic outcomes in children and adults. The article aims to improve strategies for early detection and treatment of hearing disorders.