P300 Cognitive potential in free field: test applicability Summary

Evaluation of the hearing function in individuals wearing electronic hearing aids is very important for the rehabilitation process. However, in these subjects, the procedures should be conducted in free field. Aim: To analyze the applicability of P300 cognitive potential investigated in free field. Study design: Clinical prospective. Material and Method: Thirty-three subjects of both genders were evaluated, aged 7 to 34 years, with normal hearing and no risk for mental disorders. P300 cognitive potential was performed with equipment Biologic’s Evoked Potential System (EP), with insertion phones (3A) under free field (0º Azimuth and 45º Azimuth). Results: There were no statistically significant differences for latency of N2 and P300 and amplitude of P300 with regard to gender and conduction of the test (phone and free field), as well as for comparison of the measurements in free field at 0º and 45º Azimuth. Conclusion: Investigation of P300 cognitive potential in free field is a viable procedure. Key words: event-related potentials, P300, cognition, auditory