Electrocochleography (ECoG) Testing

ElectroCochleoGraphy (ECoG) tests are objective assessments used in the diagnosis of Meniere’s disease and other disorders. ECoG tests measure electrical potentials generated in the cochlea, a part of the inner ear, in response to audio stimulation.

During an ECoG test:

• A sticker electrode is placed on the forehead and foil-covered earphones are inserted into the ear canals, which are gently cleansed beforehand.
• An audio stimulus is presented to the patient through the earphones.
• An electrode picks up cochlear activity that occurs in response to the sound.
• Once measurements are collected, the electrode and earphones are removed and the patient can proceed with their day as usual.
• The measurements (waves) are interpreted by an audiologist. 

In order to ease preparation, refrain from applying facial makeup prior to an ECoG test. Patients are asked to relax and remain still in an exam chair with eyes closed during the test. Afterward, an audiologist will interpret the data and prepare a report to be reviewed by your physician. A follow-up appointment with your physician is typically scheduled five days after the test.