Susan Small

2001 Research Trainee Award, PhD

Estimation of Cochlear Thresholds Using Multiple Auditory Steady-State Responses in Infant and Adult Subjects

Susan Small's research examines an advanced method to test hearing in infants, young children and others who cannot be assessed through traditional testing techniques. The method focuses on Auditory Steady State Responses (ASSRs), objective measures of response to sound stimuli in the areas of the brain involved in hearing. Past research on ASSRs, which test multiple frequencies in both ears simultaneously, has shown their reliability in measuring air-conducted sounds. Small is assessing the method's reliability in estimating bone-conducted sounds. Reliable measurements of bone-conduction thresholds help determine whether surgery, hearing aids or other rehabilitation strategies are most appropriate for an individual. Small, whose experience includes nine years of clinical practice in audiology, intends to devote her research career to gaining a better understanding of the human auditory system. Ultimately, she hopes this research will lead to more effective early intervention for patients with hearing impairment. Received 2004 MSFHR Trainee Award
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