Early Detection of Hearing Impairment among High-Risk Neonates

Objective: To assess the frequency of hearing impairment among pre-defined high risk newborns. Study Design: A cross-sectional analytical study. Place and Duration: Fatima Memorial Hospital, Shadman, Lahore in 2008 Materials and Methods: Two successive otoacoustic emission (OAE) recordings were followed by brain stem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) and otolaryngeal {ORL} consultation, in those cases screened to have hearing loss. One hundred neonates fulfilling the criteria of being high risk were studied at Fatima Memorial Hospital, Shadman, Lahore in 2008. Results: Among high risk neonates, 92.0% were found normal for auditory functions. 6.0% were found to have bilateral impairment and definite hearing loss. Six percent hearing impairment on screening test was quite high to initiate such tests in major obstetrical units. Early detection and management carries better prospects. Conclusion: Hearing impairment has a very serious impact on cognitive development, language acquisition and social integration, every public and private sector tertiary care hospitals should start screening every newborn if possible or atleast high risk neonates in Pakistan. In view of such studies American Academy of Paediatrica recommended, hearing loss diagnosis, to be completed by less than three months.