What is Tympanometry?
Tympanometry is a test that measures the mobility of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the middle ear cavity. It is a painless and non-invasive test that is performed by an audiologist.
What does a tympanometry test for?
Tympanometry can be used to diagnose a number of middle ear problems, including:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME): This is a condition where fluid builds up in the middle ear.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is a problem with the Eustachian tube, which is the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat.
- Perforated eardrum: This is a hole in the eardrum.
- Ossicular chain disorders: These are disorders that affect the ossicles, which are the small bones in the middle ear that transmit sound waves to the inner ear.
What are the three types of tympanogram?
There are three main types of tympanograms:
- Type A: This is the normal tympanogram. It shows a peak in the middle of the graph, which indicates that the eardrum is moving normally.
- Type B: This tympanogram shows a flat curve, which indicates that the eardrum is not moving as well as it should. This can be caused by fluid in the middle ear, a perforated eardrum, or a problem with the Eustachian tube.
- Type C: This tympanogram shows a peak at the high-pressure end of the graph, which indicates that the eardrum is too stiff. This can be caused by scarring of the eardrum or by a problem with the ossicles (the small bones in the middle ear).
What is the normal value of tympanometry?
The normal value of tympanometry varies depending on the age of the person and the type of tympanometry machine that is used. However, a normal tympanogram will show a peak in the middle of the graph.
What diseases can tympanometry be used to diagnose?
Tympanometry can be used to diagnose a number of middle ear problems, including:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME): This is a condition where fluid builds up in the middle ear.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is a problem with the Eustachian tube, which is the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat.
- Perforated eardrum: This is a hole in the eardrum.
- Ossicular chain disorders: These are disorders that affect the ossicles, which are the small bones in the middle ear that transmit sound waves to the inner ear.
How is tympanometry performed?
Tympanometry is a painless test that is performed by an audiologist. The audiologist will insert a small probe into the ear canal. The probe will then create a change in air pressure in the ear canal, and the tympanogram will be recorded.