The authors summarize the results of examinations by means of otoacoustic emissions (OAE) during screening of hearing defects in neonates were elaborated. The investigation evaluated the results assembled at the department of normal neonates and the neonatological unit of intensive care of the Faculty Hospital in Brno. During the three-year investigation period (1996 - 1998) a total of 560 children were examined, incl. 326 normal ones and 234 at risk. The authors submit the assembled result and suggest an algorithm of the screening procedure. They discuss the problem of blanket introduction of this examination and its conditions. TeOAE appears to be a suitable screening examination with regard to the time it requires, and its validity when the technique and interpretation of the examination are mastered.

        Key words: otoacoustic emission, neonates, screening, hearing defect.