Test-Retest Reliability of the Components of Multi-Frequency Tympanometry.

OBJECTIVE: Multi-frequency tympanometry and its components are extensively used to identify middle ear disorders. However, there are a limited number of studies that have attempted to determine its test-retest reliability. Thus, the present study attempted to determine the test-retest reliability of the different components of multi-frequency tympanometry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The resonant frequency (RF), F45, and ΔG were determined three times in 40adults with normal hearing. The results obtained across the three trials were compared to determine the test-retest reliability.

RESULTS: F45 and ΔG had excellent intra- and inter-session reliabilities. The reliability of the RF was also good, but it was relatively less compared to that of the other two measures. The study also showed that there was no effect of gender on the reliability measures.

CONCLUSION: Thus, F45 and ΔG can be clinically used considering theirhigh reliability, and the RF should be interpreted with caution. However, further studies on a larger group of patientsincluding a clinical group are essential for determining the further applicability of these results.