Tympanometry
This test is performed with a probe placed in the outer ear canal. It results in a graph showing the mobility of the eardrum and other middle ear components. If the eardrum is less mobile than expected, a physician can diagnose the cause of the abnormality.

Auditory brainstem response test (ABR)
This painless test is used to evaluate the integrity of the auditory nerve. Electrodes are placed on the head and ears, and the patient listens to a clicking type stimulus. The nerve impulses are then recorded, measured, and compared to normal data. This is useful in evaluating the auditory nerve for abnormalities, and to assess the predicted auditory function of newborns.

Otoacoustic emissions (OAE)
This test is quick, and informative. A probe placed in the outer ear canal uses a sound generator and a very sensitive microphone to measure the resulting response from hair cells in the cochlea. Otoacoustic emissions can be measured in people with normal hearing. If the response is absent, then hearing loss is suspected.

Electronystagmography (ENG)
This test is ordered to assess the portion of the inner ear that helps control balance. The test is sensitive to particular abnormalities of the vestibular system and also gives some information about the central nervous system. Electrodes monitor eye movements during tasks such as tracking a moving target, and the patient being placed in particular positions. The vestibular system is stimulated by irrigation of the ears with water to determine if the two sides are working equally.

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