Management Team

Brainstem Auditory-evoked Response (BAER)

Overview

The brainstem auditory evoked response is a non-invasive test used to assess the function of the auditory nerve and brainstem (i.e., hearing ability and nerve function). It measures the electrical activity generated in response to an auditory stimulus

  • Hearing loss or deafness
  • Auditory nerve damage
  • Acoustic neuroma (tumour on the auditory nerve)
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Brainstem function monitoring in comatose patients
  • New-born screening for hearing disorders

The following steps are involved:

  • Electrodes are placed on the scalp and ears.
  • The patient listens to sounds generated in the form of clicks and tones through earphones.
  • The brain activity generated in response to the sound is recorded.

The test usually takes around 30–60 minutes.

Patients can return to normal activities immediately after the test. No recovery time is needed.

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