Ecoch G Electrocochleongraphy

EcochG(Electrocochleongraphy)

The electrocochleography test is an objective measure of the electrical potentials generated in the inner ear as a result of sound stimulation. This test is most often used to determine if the inner ear (cochlea) has an excessive amount of fluid pressure. Excessive fluid pressure in the cochlea can cause symptoms such as hearing loss, aural fullness, dizziness, and/or tinnitus. These symptoms are sometimes indicative of certain ear pathologies such as Meniere’s disease or endolymphatic hydrops.

The complete Ecochg testing takes up to 40 minutes to 1 hr. A patient undergoing an Ecochg test will have several surface electrodes placed on their head. A tiny microphone and an earphone will then be inserted into the canal of the test ear.

Procedure
The patient will be instructed to relax while they listen to a clicking sound. It is very important that the patient be relaxed for this test since any tension or muscle movement can slow down the averaging process. No response from the patient is required for this test. While the patient is listening to the clicking, the audiologist will measure the Ecochg response with a computer that uses signal filtering and averaging to isolate neural activity from the cochlea.

After this test is complete, the patient will schedule a follow-up appointment to return in two weeks. At the follow-up visit, the referring physician will discuss the Ecochg results and other audiological test results with the patient.