Insert ear-probe assembly for high-quality otoacoustic-emission (OAE) measurements in adults

Current otoacoustic emission probes used for diagnostic evaluation of the middle and inner ear components of hearing can not produce well-calibrated, high-quality acoustic stimuli that cover the upper frequency range of human hearing that is most easily damaged by ototoxic drugs, noise and the normal process of aging. The microphones in these devices are also not calibrated to allow accurate presentation of acoustic stimuli or measure the acoustic emissions generated by the inner ear. Through a large-scale NIH-sponsored translational study at Northwestern University we have developed a prototype research-quality instrument that already satisfies nearly all of the specifications of the present call for proposals, but is also providing strong evidence that such measurements are likely to be of great diagnostic value. In partnership with Etymotic Research, Inc., we propose to create a practical and robust otoacoustic emission probe that satisfies the stated performance criteria. Although we already have a strong basis in experiments and theory to think about how to achieve this goal, we also understand how to thoroughly test components of the new probe, separately and in combination, to be able to propose a solution that will be virtually certain to work as specified.