Validation of a low-cost, portable pure-tone audiometer

Abstract

Introduction: Around the world, there is an increasing demand for better hearing services. Access to hearing care involves the availability of accurate and calibrated audiometric apparatus. As audiometers are task-specific and expensive equipment, their portability is a common constraint. Hence, there is a need for developing low-cost, portable audiometers, so that the instrument can be quickly transported to remote regions and is conveniently accessible to multiple centers. Aim: The aim was to compare the air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) thresholds obtained using newly developed Nautilus “KiVi” and a commercial, nonportable audiometer in both normal hearing and hearing-impaired individuals. Methods: The study included a total of 73 people, 52 having normal hearing sensitivity and 21 with hearing impairment. Results: It was found that among individuals with normal hearing except at 125 Hz, there was no significant difference in AC thresholds obtained using the Nautilus “KiVi” audiometer and a commercial, nonportable audiometer across frequencies. However, the BC thresholds obtained using the Nautilus “KiVi” audiometer was significantly better than that of a commercial, nonportable audiometer across frequencies. Among the individuals with hearing impairment, except at 8k Hz, there was no significant difference in AC thresholds obtained using the Nautilus “KiVi” audiometer and a commercial, nonportable audiometer. Conclusion: The Nautilus “KiVi”audiometers provide consistent results throughout a wide frequency range in those with normal hearing as well as with hearing impairment. The equipment is portable and easy to use. Hence, it can be used for diagnostic testing in schools, hospitals, remote villages, and industries.