A thin layer of tissue separating the outer ear from the middle ear is the eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane. In addition to vibrating in response to sound waves, the eardrum transmits them to the middle ear. Damaged eardrums can affect hearing and cause other problems.
Damaged eardrums can be caused by the following factors:
- Middle ear infections, also known as otitis media, are a common cause of eardrum damage. Fluid buildup can cause the eardrum to rupture.
- An eardrum tear or hole can result from a blow to the head or ear.
- Experiencing loud noises can damage the eardrum over time.
- It is possible to damage the eardrum by inserting foreign objects into the ear canal.
Damaged eardrum symptoms include:
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Loss of hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Vertigo or dizziness
- Ear drainage
Damaged eardrums may heal on their own over time, but if the damage is severe or does not heal, surgery may be required.
The following surgical options are available:
- Under general anaesthesia, myringoplasty involves patching the hole or tear in the eardrum with a small piece of tissue.
- Similarly to myringoplasty, tympanoplasty involves repairing any damage to the middle ear bones (ossicles) caused by damaged eardrums.
- This procedure involves removing infected tissue and reconstructing the eardrum and middle ear if damage has caused an infection in the mastoid bone behind the ear.
Is eardrum surgery successful?
Depending on the cause and severity of the damage, as well as the skill of the surgeon, eardrum repair surgery has a variable success rate. However, many studies report success rates of 85-95%.
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