In lifestyle, readiness to pursue amplification, hearing loss severity, and even ear anatomy. Although small, every individual’s ear canal and anatomy are different. Not only does this impact the audiologist's choice of device and its physical fit, but these small differences make a big impact on hearing aid acoustics.  

Hearing aids are programmed through software that amplifies sound in different ways depending on the audiogram. Once programmed, however, the fit or sound may still not be perfect. This is where a real ear measurement comes into play. Once the audiologist has REM data, they can then adjust the hearing aids to ensure that that individual is getting the correct amount of sound.  

Without a real ear measurement, fitting hearing aids properly can be a frustrating process of trial and error. An audiologist can adjust the fit to the hearing aid software’s recommendations, and the patient may still return several times for adjustments. By performing real ear measurements, you are reducing the likelihood of extensive follow-up visits, which take up precious clinic time.

While real ear measurements provide valuable information on a hearing aid’s output, there are instances where real ear testing isn’t appropriate. 

• Pain in the ear canal
  As a small tube is inserted into the ear canal during testing, pre-existing pain in the ear should be considered.
  
  
• Wax or discharge
  A significant amount of wax can not only affect the validity of your results, but it can also clog the probe tube. Should this occur, no response would be noted even with the hearing aid turned on. Discharge due to active infection can lead to the same problems. 
  
  
• Eardrum Perforations
  While the presence of an ear drum perforation doesn’t completely preclude real ear testing, it should be considered. With a large perforation, results may be affected by the open middle ear space. Additionally, with any size perforation, probe tube placement should be performed carefully so as not to insert the probe through the perforation itself. 

During this test, an audiologist places a small tube into the entrance of the ear canal. This tube measures the sound going into the ear. They will then place the hearing aid in and play stimuli from a speaker – that may be tones or speech. The output from the hearing aid will be measured in the ear. This measurement will then be compared to validated “targets.” These targets are based on the individual’s hearing loss and indicate the appropriate output of the hearing aid at each frequency that is presented. 

With the appropriate equipment, real ear measurements can be conducted quickly. To start performing real ear testing, you will need: 

• An existing audiogram to compare hearing aid fitting targets
• An otoscope to check for wax and/or debris 
• A high-quality loudspeaker for presenting stimuli 
• An audiometer and fitting unit
• REM software/test box 
• Probe tubes 
• Reference microphones

Yes, you can use the Measure's REM module in conjunction with other audiometer and fitting unit, such as the Hearing Instrument Test Box or the portable Loudspeaker system.

With Measure's REM, you can conduct all essential REM measurements, which include REUG/REUR, REOG/REOR, REAG/REAR, REIG, and RECD.

Yes, you can utilize Measure REM with several input signals, including ISTS, ICRA noise, and many other signals.

Measure's REM module supports a range of prescriptive formulas such as DSL v5, NAL-NL1, NAL-NL2, and it also allows for manual target input to tailor evaluations for individual needs.

The binaural REM capabilities ensure more accurate and simultaneous measurements for both ears. This streamlines the hearing aid fitting process, making it quicker and more efficient.

Yes, with the manual target input feature, you can individualize evaluations based on specific needs and preferences.