The Amplivox Otowave 102-4 Tympanometer is a highly portable, handheld device designed for efficient and reliable middle ear assessments. This model is especially well-regarded for its ergonomic design, which makes it easy to use in both clinical and mobile settings. Below are the key features and aspects that make the Otowave 102-4 stand out

Key Features:

1. Comprehensive Testing: The Otowave 102-4 is equipped to perform tympanometry with a 226Hz probe tone and offers ipsilateral reflex testing at four frequencies: 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, and 4kHz. This range allows for detailed diagnostic evaluations, including compliance peak, compliance peak pressure, and ear canal volume measurements.

2. Portability and Design: Weighing just 380 grams, the Otowave 102-4 is designed for maximum portability, making it ideal for audiologists who work in multiple locations. Its ergonomic design ensures that it fits comfortably in the hand, promoting ease of use and reducing operator fatigue during testing sessions.

3. Ease of Use: The device features a large, high-resolution graphics display that shows test results in real-time. The interface is intuitive, with a simple four-key button layout that allows users to conduct tests efficiently. Results can be automatically evaluated with a pass/refer function or manually reviewed by the operator.

4. Data Management: The Otowave 102-4 includes an internal memory capable of storing up to 30 patient records, which can be transferred to a PC using an optional infrared adapter. It also integrates with software like Amplisuite and NOAH, facilitating seamless data management and workflow integration.

5. Versatility: The tympanometer is suitable for a wide range of patients, including children with conditions such as otitis media. It is highly adaptable for different clinical environments, from stationary clinics to mobile setups, making it a versatile tool for audiologists.

In my opinion, unless you are completing a battery of audiological tests, ipsilateral reflex testing at 4 frequencies isn't much use and it's a bit "next-level" for most common variety audiologists and almost definitely for all other ear care practitioners. The Amplivox Otowave 102-1 will show you the following results with a very simple test, all in a few seconds:

1. Normal: A peaked curve with maximum compliance near 0 daPa pressure
2. Fluid in middle ear: A flat, horizontal line with no peak
3. Negative middle ear pressure: A peaked curve shifted to the left of 0 daPa
4. Eardrum perforation: A flat line with abnormally high ear canal volume
5. Ossicular chain discontinuity: An abnormally high peaked curve
6. Otosclerosis: A lower, flatter peaked curve

Anyone can perform the above. However, if you do want to take things to the next level, then read on.

Ipsilateral Acoustic Reflex Testing

Ipsilateral acoustic reflex testing at multiple frequencies (typically 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 4000 Hz) offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Diagnostic Power: Testing across multiple frequencies provides more comprehensive information about the acoustic reflex pathway and different parts of the cochlea. This allows for better detection and differentiation of various auditory disorders.

• Lower Stimulus Intensities: Ipsilateral reflex thresholds are typically 2-16 dB lower than contralateral thresholds. This allows for testing at lower, potentially safer intensity levels, reducing concerns about acoustic trauma.

• Reduced Artefact: Ipsilateral testing is less prone to artefact compared to contralateral testing, as only one probe needs to be inserted into the ear canal. This eliminates potential errors from a poorly positioned contralateral probe.

• Convenience: Many clinicians prefer ipsilateral testing due to its convenience. A survey found that 34% of audiologists use only ipsilateral reflex testing.

• Feasibility in Challenging Populations: Ipsilateral testing is particularly advantageous for newborns, infants, and difficult-to-test populations.

Specific Conditions Diagnosed by Ipsilateral Acoustic Reflex Testing

• Conductive Hearing Loss: Ipsilateral testing can help define the state of an ear opposite to a unilateral conductive loss.

• Sensorineural Hearing Loss: It can assess the less affected ear in cases of bilateral asymmetrical sensorineural hearing losses.

• Central Auditory Disorders: Ipsilateral testing can be valuable in suspected central lesions.

• Eighth Nerve and Brainstem Disorders: When used in conjunction with contralateral testing, different ipsilateral-contralateral patterns can be related to various loci of pathology. For example, an eighth nerve lesion typically presents with an absent ipsilateral acoustic reflex on the affected side but a normal contralateral reflex when the normal ear is stimulated.

• Tinnitus and Dizziness: Routine performance of ipsilateral acoustic reflex tests can provide important information for the differential diagnosis of both cochlear and retrocochlear pathologies in patients with these symptoms.

By testing at multiple frequencies, clinicians can gather more comprehensive data to aid in the differential diagnosis of these conditions. However, it's important to note that acoustic reflex testing should be used as part of a complete audiological test battery for the most accurate diagnosis.

I will also note here that the Amplivox Otowave 102-C has all the capabilities of 102-4 with the added docking station that recharges and also connects to your computer, automatically uploading the patient results. It makes it easy to print out results too; otherwise, you may need to option the thermal printer and/or the IrDA PC port. The docking station is extremely useful in busy clinics, regardless of whether they perform the more advanced tests or not.

The Hearing Lab Store offers a wide range of other services and products designed to support your clinical practice. Explore our Store for more products, explore our ready made microsuction equipment packages to find what's best for your needs, or consider our Microsuction Training and Tinnitus Training programs to enhance your skills. We also provide free digital forms in our Tinnitus Tool Kit, a Find a Locum Service, and Free Online Earwax Removal Patient Consent Forms.