[Stapedius reflex audiometry as an objective screening test in newborn infants].

The stapedial reflex was formerly regarded to be unreliable in neonates. Recent investigations by Weatherby and Bennett (1982) showed, that when using higher probe tone frequencies (800-1200 Hz), the reflex is present during the first days of life. Measuring amount and phase of impedance change, we investigated 40 neonates using probe tone frequencies of 800 and 1200 Hz. The results obtained indicate that 1200 Hz is more suited to investigate reflex activity. The Niemeyer-Sesterhenn equation was applied to distinguish between normal hearing and hearing loss. In 29 babies normal hearing could be determined objectively. 7 babies stirred during the procedure and the examination could therefore not be completed. In 4 cases the stapedial reflex was not detectable in spite of an apparently normal hearing. Reasons for the false positive results are discussed.