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ASOHNS ASM 2025
ASOHNS ASM 2025
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The Tale of the Tuning Fork: From Pitch to Pathology

Verbal Presentation
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Verbal Presentation

8:16 am

30 March 2025

Meeting Room C2.5

BREAKFAST SESSION: HISTORICAL SECTION

Disciplines

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Presentation Description

Institution: Children's Hospital Westmead - NSW, Australia

The humble tuning fork, often overshadowed by modern diagnostic tools, has an intriguing history that spans centuries and disciplines. We explore the journey of the tuning fork, from its invention by John Shore, a trumpeter in Handel’s orchestra in 1711, to its unexpected role in otology and medicine. Initially designed as a precise tool for tuning musical instruments, its clear, sustained vibrations quickly found application elsewhere, including in the in assessment of hearing and bone conduction through the skull. We will delve into how pioneers like Rinne, Weber, Schwabach, and Bing ingeniously adapted the tuning fork to develop tests that continue to be taught and practiced today. Despite the advent of modern advanced audiometry, the tuning fork still plays an important role in clinical otologic assessment. With its unique place in the history of otolaryngology, the tuning fork remains a symbol of innovation and interdisciplinary curiosity, proving that sometimes, the simplest tools can leave the most resonant impact.

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