Tympanomanometry

Tympanomanometry: Examination of the middle ear to diagnose and evaluate eardrum function

Introduction

Tympanomanometry is an important tool in the field of audiology and otolaryngology, used to assess middle ear function. This diagnostic test measures changes in pressure in the ear and evaluates the condition of the eardrum. Tympanomanometry is an integral part of audiological assessment and can help diagnose a wide range of diseases and conditions of the ear.

Definition and working principle

The term "tympanomanometry" comes from a combination of the words "tympano-" (relating to the eardrum) and "manometry" (measurement of pressure). This is a non-invasive procedure that uses a special device called a tympanomanometer to measure the pressure in the ear.

The tympanomanometry procedure includes the following steps:

1. Inserting a small probe into the external sound duct of the patient's ear. The probe contains a microphone and a pressure sensor.
2. Creating a level of pressure in the probe that affects the eardrum.
3. Record changes in probe pressure and volume at different levels of sound stimulus, as well as changes in external pressure (for example, changes in altitude or swallowing).
4. Analysis of the obtained data to assess the function of the eardrum and determine possible pathologies or diseases.

Clinical Application

Tympanomanometry is widely used in clinical practice for the diagnosis and evaluation of various ear conditions. Some of the main applications include:

1. Diagnosis and evaluation of otitis media: Tympanomanometry can help determine the presence and type of otitis media, such as otitis media or ear clots. Measuring the pressure in the eardrum and how it changes with swallowing or with changes in external pressure can provide information about the condition of the middle ear.

2. Diagnosis of auditory tube dysfunction: Tympanomanometry can help assess the function of the auditory tube, which plays an important role in regulating pressure in the middle ear. Abnormalities in the function of the auditory tube can lead to problems with pressure in the middle ear and affect hearing function.

3. Assessing the effectiveness of treatment: Tympanomanometry can be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment and monitor the progress of patients with ear diseases. Measuring the pressure in the eardrum before and after treatment can help determine the effectiveness of medications or procedures.

4. Surgical planning: Tympanomanometry may be useful in planning middle ear surgery. It can help determine the extent of damage to the eardrum and the function of the ear ossicles, allowing doctors to make an informed decision about the need and type of surgery.

Conclusion

Tympanomanometry is a valuable tool for diagnosing and assessing middle ear function. This is a non-invasive procedure that measures the pressure in the ear cavity and evaluates the condition of the eardrum. Clinical applications of tympanomanometry include the diagnosis and evaluation of various ear diseases, as well as the evaluation of treatment effectiveness and surgical planning. It is an important tool to help clinicians make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for their patients' ear health.