Rinne Test

RINNE TEST (Rinne), one of the diagnostic methods used in otology for examining the apparatus that conducts sound. The test is based on the physiological premise: sound conduction through air is longer and more intense compared to conduction through bone. Technique of the test: a sounding tuning fork is placed by its stem on the mastoid process of the side being examined, while the external auditory meatus is previously closed with a tight tampon; the subject is asked to give a signal when the sensation of sound ceases; immediately after the signal, the tuning fork (without repeating the procedures that cause its vibration!) is brought near the external auditory meatus, of course freed from the tampon. The test result is considered positive if the ceased perception of sound through bone is resumed through air. (Conditional notation: Rinne+.) A negative result (Rinne-) is recorded in cases when the sound of the tuning fork, not distinguishable by the subject while the instrument is on the mastoid process, is also not felt by it when the tuning fork is brought near the external auditory canal; in these cases, a confirmatory modification of the test is usually performed: initially, a sounding tuning fork is placed near the external auditory meatus and then, when the subject indicates the moment when the sound ceases to be heard, the tuning fork is moved to the mastoid process, after which the sound is again felt. A negative Rinne indicates a disease of some part of the sound-conducting apparatus (middle ear, auditory ossicles, tympanic membrane).