Bone conduction thresholds need to be measured in which ear?

Measuring bone conduction thresholds is particularly important for assessing the type and degree of hearing loss. Bone conduction tests measure how sound is transmitted through the bones of the skull, bypassing the outer and middle ear. This method allows for the evaluation of the inner ear and auditory nerve function.

In the context of determining hearing capabilities, focusing on the worse ear is essential. This helps to identify the level of hearing loss present and to establish a baseline for the patient’s audiological profile. By measuring bone conduction thresholds in the worse ear, the practitioner can gain critical insights into the extent of conductive, sensorineural, or mixed hearing loss, which informs appropriate management and treatment options.

Measuring the better ear may not provide a complete picture if significant hearing loss is present in the other ear. Additionally, testing both ears equally may dilute the focus on the more critical affected ear, making it difficult to draw conclusive insights about the listener's overall hearing health. Thus, assessing the worse ear helps ensure a comprehensive evaluation in hearing aid fitting and rehabilitation.