Tympanotomy

Tympanotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the tympanic membrane or eardrum. This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure caused by excessive buildup of fluid, or to drain pus from the middle ear.

Procedure

A tympanotomy is typically performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eardrum to allow for the drainage of fluid or pus. This can help to relieve symptoms such as pain and hearing loss. In some cases, a small tube may be inserted into the eardrum to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time. This tube is often left in place for several months and falls out by itself.

Indications

Tympanotomy is often indicated for otitis media with effusion (OME), which is a condition where fluid accumulates in the middle ear due to inflammation and does not resolve for several months. Other indications include chronic otitis media (COM), which is a persistent infection of the middle ear, often with discharge, or to relieve the symptoms of acute otitis media (AOM), which is a sudden onset infection of the middle ear.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with tympanotomy. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to the ear structures. In rare cases, the procedure may result in a permanent change in hearing.

See Also

• Otitis media
• Tympanic membrane

References

Tympanotomy Resources
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