Abstract

Aim of the study: The presentation of experiences of the ENT Department, Medical University of Gdańsk in the accomplishment of universal neonatal hearing screening program. The authors also discuss the most common problems with the implementation of the program.

Materials and methods: The material consists of 753 children diagnosed in our department from November 2002 to December 2004. Audiologic screening was executed according to the scheme of II reference center assignments.

Results:
a. Screening tests: During the first examination among 753 children unilateral hearing loss was stated in 29 cases and bilateral in 60 cases. Consecutive tests in 89 cases stated hearing loss in 36 cases: unilateral – 7 cases, bilateral – 29 cases. Out of 36 children, 22 had a hearing loss which demanded acoustic rehabilitation. 7 parents agreed on the examination and treatment in III reference centers and the remaining 15 resigned from participation in the program.
b. Organizational and financial problems: 1. long distance to the nearest III reference center; 2. the increasing number of tests in the following years of the program, resulting from its implementation; 3. finally unregulated way of financing the tests; 4. the shortage of financial resources for servicing of audiologic devices and accessories.

Conclusions: The universal neonatal hearing screening program is a helpful method of early detection neonates of hearing defects in neonates and it contributes to an increase in their detection as well as early treatment and rehabilitation. It is advisable to initiate some small improvements in the program functioning.

Adres: lek. Tomasz Przewoźny
Katedra i Klinika Chorób Uszu, Nosa, Gardła i Krtani AMG
ul. Dębinki 7, 80-211 Gdańsk
e-mail: tprzew@gumed.edu.pl