Comparing the latency and amplitude of auditory-evoked brainstem responses in full-term and premature neonates

Auditory-evoked potentials are brain waves produced by presenting acoustic signals to the person. Auditory-evoked brainstem responses (AEBR) are a part of auditory evoked potentials seen in a time range less than 10 ms after the delivery of high intensity stimulation. Considering the effect of maturation on auditory pathways, the purpose of this study was to compare the latency and amplitude of (AEBR) in full-term and premature neonates. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 full-term and 40 premature neonates (1 -28 days). The obtained amplitude and latency of AEBR were studied. The data were analyzed using SPSS software and t- test. While the mean latency of I, III, V waves and inter-wave latency of I-III, I-V, III-V and also amplitude of V waves showed a significant difference in both groups, the comparison of amplitude of waves I in two groups showed no significant difference. According to the availability of a significant difference between the latency and amplitude of auditory brainstem responses in full-term and premature newborns, and due to the delayed maturation of central auditory nervous system, the use of relative normative data for the study of auditory-evoked potentials in premature neonates are suggested.