The Audiologist's Role in Determining Cochlear Function After Gunshot Injury to the Temporal Bone.

Abstract

Background: An increase in gun violence over the last few years has resulted in gunshot injuries soaring as a top public health issue in the United States. The increase in gun violence has also led to an increase in gunshot wounds on the temporal bone. The most common major complaint in conscious patients with temporal bone trauma is hearing loss.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explain the need for successful management of penetrating head injuries, demonstrate the role of the audiologist in determining cochlear function after gunshot injury to the temporal bone, and discuss the importance of interdisciplinary approach involving audiologists and physicians. We hypothesized that early and accurate audiological assessment is critical for effective surgical intervention and patient outcomes.

Research design: We present three unique cases of temporal bone trauma due to gunshot injuries, with quite different audiological results, in this exploratory case report.

Conclusions: The variability in assessment protocols used and audiological outcomes demonstrate the need for successful management of penetrating head injuries, the role of the audiologist in determining cochlear function after gunshot injury to the temporal bone, and the importance of interdisciplinary approach. Collaboration between the surgeon and audiologist, coupled with prompt and accurate audiologic results, can lead to the most successful outcome for the patient, thus improving the quality of health care.