Tympanometry
Tympanometry - precise middle ear examination
Tympanometry is a fast, painless and highly informative method for evaluating middle ear health. It allows you to determine the movement of the tympanic membrane, the pressure in the tympanic cavity, and to assess the functionality of the hearing bones. This examination is particularly useful in cases where typically otoscopic (classic ENT instrument) examinations are not sufficient to detect subtle changes or early inflammatory processes.
Tympanometry helps identify various diseases of the middle ear:
- Middle ear inflammation (acute or chronic otitis)
- tympanic membrane perforations or thickening
- Otosclerosis (hardening of hearing bones)
- Accumulation of fluid in the middle ear (serous inflammation of the middle ear)
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
Who is performing the examination?
In the NeiroMed clinic, tympanometry is performed by a neurotolaryngologist — an ear, nose and throat doctor with an in-depth understanding of the effects of the nervous system on hearing and balance as well. The close collaboration of the neurotolaryngologist with neurologists allows evaluation of both ear structure and functional disorders, especially in complex cases.
Duration of examination
About 5-10 minutes
Preparation
Not required
Feelings
The exam is completely non-invasive and painless
Restrictions
None - suitable for both children and adults
How does the tympanometer work?
The tympanometer is a small diagnostic apparatus with a screen showing the reaction of the tympanic membrane to pressure changes in the ear canal. During the examination, a special probe is inserted into the ear which produces variable air pressure and simultaneously records the sound reflection. This creates a tympanogram, a schedule that helps you determine:
- Is the tympanic membrane flexible
- Whether the tympanic cavity contains fluid or adhesions
- How well the hearing bones move
Benefits of tympanometry
- Early detection of inflammation or fluid accumulation
- Ability to diagnose otosclerosis, adhesions or tympanic membrane lesions
- Non-invasive method — particularly suitable for young children
- Results are received immediately – the doctor immediately provides a conclusion
Caring for your hearing
If you notice a worsening hearing, ear congestion, earache, noise in your ears or recurrent ear inflammation, it is important that you approach a specialist in a timely manner. Tympanometry allows you to quickly identify the cause of the problem and make reasonable decisions about further treatment or follow-up.
Do not postpone the hearing test – the sooner treatment starts, the better the results.