tympanometrialla

Tympanometry is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the function of the middle ear. It measures how well the eardrum moves and how the middle ear space is functioning. The test involves placing a small probe into the ear canal, which emits a sound and measures the pressure and volume changes within the ear. A tympanometer is the instrument used to perform this measurement.

The procedure is painless and relatively quick, typically taking only a few minutes per ear. During the test, the probe creates a seal in the ear canal. A small pump then alters the air pressure in the ear canal, causing the eardrum to move. Sensors within the probe record how the eardrum's movement changes in response to these pressure variations.

The results of tympanometry are displayed as a graph called a tympanogram. Different shapes and characteristics of the tympanogram can indicate various middle ear conditions, such as fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion), a perforated eardrum, or ossicular chain problems. A normal tympanogram usually shows a peak in the graph at a specific pressure, indicating healthy middle ear function. Abnormal tympanograms can help audiologists and physicians diagnose and manage hearing issues.