BERA stands for Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry. BERA machines are medical devices used to conduct BERA tests, also known as Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) tests. These tests evaluate the function of the auditory nerve and brainstem pathways in response to sound stimuli.
Here's a breakdown of its purpose and usage:
1. Assessment of Hearing Function
BERA machines are primarily used to assess the hearing function, especially in individuals who may have difficulty participating in conventional hearing tests, such as infants, young children, or individuals with developmental or cognitive impairments.
2. Diagnosis of Auditory Pathway Disorders
BERA tests help in diagnosing a range of auditory pathway disorders, including auditory neuropathy, brainstem lesions, and tumors affecting the auditory nerve or brainstem.
3. Newborn Hearing Screening
BERA tests are often used as part of newborn hearing screening programs to detect hearing impairments or abnormalities early in infancy.
4.Objective Assessment
Unlike traditional hearing tests that rely on patient responses, BERA tests provide an objective assessment of auditory function by measuring the electrical activity generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimuli.
5.Monitoring Auditory Function
BERA tests are also used to monitor changes in auditory function over time, such as assessing the effectiveness of interventions or monitoring progression in individuals with auditory pathway disorders.