Event. Mastering Neurological ABR

This course is designed to equip participants with the theoretical and practical understanding of how to perform a range of neurological ABR assessments. This learning path is divided into four core lessons, detailed below.

Lesson 1: Foundations of Electrophysiology

This optional but recommended first lesson is designed to provide participants who are newer to electrophysiological assessments with the essential background theory which is foundational to performing neurological ABR assessments. Even those who are familiar with electrophysiology will gain some valuable tips which may help to deepen their understanding of the topic.

Learning objectives

• Classify what ABRs are and the types of responses which fall into the category of ABR evoked potentials.
• Describe the essential components of an evoked potentials system and discuss their function in the context of ABR.
• Identify how the features of evoked potentials systems assist clinicians to improve quality of electrophysiological recordings.

Lesson 2: Introduction to Neurological ABR Assessments

This lesson will bring our focus to the range of neurological ABR assessments available and discuss what Neuro ABR measurements are, why we would perform them, and introduce the range of test protocols available under the umbrella of Neuro ABR.

Learning objectives

• Explain what neurological ABR is and how it is different from other electrophysiological measurements.
• Interpret the types cases where neurological ABR assessments are indicated.
• Identify the range of assessment methodologies which come under the term “Neurological ABR”

Lesson 3: Neurological ABR Preparation, Protocols and Recording

This clinically focused lesson aims to provide detailed instruction on how to prepare a patient and evoked potentials protocol for neurological ABR; finishing with a step-by-step walkthrough of the EP recording process with a patient.

Learning objectives

• Identify the appropriate Neuro ABR recording montage and protocol parameters to provide robust results.
• Explain the process of preparing the environment and patient for Neurological ABR recording.
• Execute a Neurological ABR recording using appropriate testing parameters.

Lesson 4: Neurological ABR Interpretation and Cases

This lesson focuses on the steps required following the recording of a neurological ABR to allow for appropriate and robust analysis and interpretation of Neuro ABR waveforms and results. We will examine normal examples and consider what abnormal results may look like and indicate.

Learning objectives

• Appraise a range of normal Neuro ABR results.
• Critique methods of waveform analysis and identify how the data gathered assists with the interpretation of cases.
• Evaluate common abnormalities in Neuro ABR responses and relate these findings back to anatomy and pathophysiology.

Course presenter: Michael East MSc

Michael is an Audiologist and Clinical Scientist from the UK with many years of experience working in senior clinical audiology positions within the National Health Service, specialising in both paediatrics and vestibular assessment/rehabilitation. He holds undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from the University of Southampton and Aston University respectively and completed the UK’s National School of Healthcare Science “Scientist Training Programme”, leading to his registration as a Clinical Scientist. Since joining the Academy in 2024, Michael has presented at several international scientific conferences, guest lectured at academic institutions and led courses on a wide range of topics in the field of audiology.