Department of Audiology
Michael J. M. Raffin,
PhD, Director
The Department of Audiology is actively involved in the evaluation, diagnosis, and (re)habilitation of individuals with hearing and balance problems. We are committed to providing the highest level of clinical service to our patients while ‘treating the human spirit’.
Many areas of specialization in Audiology are represented in the department, including diagnostic hearing evaluations for ages ranging from birth to geriatrics, adult cochlear implants, hearing aid evaluations, evaluation for implantable bone conduction amplification systems (BAHA), balance assessment, and intraoperative monitoring. In addition, the audiology department manages a hearing screening program for both the newborn and NICU populations for early identification and intervention in cases of hearing loss.
Diagnostics
Diagnostic audiology services provided at Loyola include comprehensive audiometry,
immittance testing, word recognition evaluation, and the use of auditory
evoked responses to evaluate the function of the VIIIth (hearing) nerve.
By using these methods we are able to identify hearing loss in all populations
from birth to geriatrics, and provide hearing solutions ranging from amplification
to referral to the appropriate medical specialists (Maywood, Illinois; Oakbrook
Terrace, IL; Wheaton, IL; Hickory Hills, IL). Comprehensive evaluation can
be provided at all Loyola sites with audiology services. Evoked potential
testing is available at the Maywood outpatient center.
Hearing Aid(s)
Hearing aid services are available at our Maywood, Oakbrook Terrace, Hickory
Hills and Wheaton sites. The goal of each hearing aid evaluation and fitting
is to determine the effect the hearing loss is having on the patient and
their family, and provide solutions to improve their quality of life. These
solutions may include using latest technology in digital hearing aids, the
use of assistive listening devices such as telephone amplification systems
or personal television systems, or the use of cochlear implants or bone
conducted amplification for those who can not take advantage of conventional
forms of amplification.
Cochlear Stimulator (BAHA)
The use of non-conventional cochlear stimulation is a growing area of practice
at Loyola. The BAHA cochlear stimulator is used for both patients experiencing
single sided deafness and those with chronic middle ear pathology that contravenes
the use of conventional hearing aids. For this procedure the audiology department
works together with ENT, providing assessment of BAHA candidacy and programming
of the BAHA external processor.
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants are designed to return auditory information to patients
who experience significant hearing loss that is not amenable to hearing
aid use. The cochlear implant team consists of audiologists who determine
candidacy, program the external device, and assist the patient in obtaining
the greatest benefit from their new “electronic hearing” and
otoneurologists who perform implantation surgery.
Balance & Dizziness
Loyola remains a premier site for balance assessment in the Chicago area.
The Loyola Balance Center provides assessment
of the balance system through electronystagmography, dynamic posturography,
and rotary chair testing. This testing may be used to assess the function
of the semicircular canals of the vestibular system, and aid in the medical
diagnosis of balance issues.
Intra-Operative Monitoring for Facial Nerve integrity and hearing
preservation and conservation
Intra-operative monitoring is provided by audiologists to assist in the
preservation of hearing in individuals who are undergoing surgery related
to the auditory nerve. By using evoked potential testing during the surgical
procedure, our audiologists are able to provide timely information to assist
the surgeon.
Professional Staffing
Our staff is comprised of clinical audiologists, all of whom have received
a Masters degree or Doctoral degree in audiology. Department audiologists
are active in presenting new developments in the field to both patients
and fellow professionals on the state level. Additionally, members of the
department have been active in research, contributing methods of audiological
assessment that are nationally recognized.
