Health Encyclopedia

Tympanometry

Definition

Tympanometry is a test used to detect disorders of the middle ear.

Alternative Names

Tympanogram

How the test is performed

Before the test, your health care provider will look inside your ear canal to make sure there is a clear path to your eardrum.

Next, a device is place into your ear. This device changes the air pressure in your ear and makes the eardrum move back and forth. A machine records the results on graphs called tympanograms.

How to prepare for the test

You should not move, speak, or swallow during the test. Such movements can change the pressure in the middle ear and give incorrect test results.

The sounds heard during the test may be loud and potentially startling. You will need to try very hard to avoid being anxious and becoming startled during the test.

If your child is to have this test done it may be helpful to show how the test is done using a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen and why, the less anxiety he or she will feel.

How the test will feel

There may be some discomfort while the probe is in the ear, but no harm will result. You will hear a loud tone as the measurements are taken.

Why the test is performed

This test measures your ear's responses to the sound and different pressures.

Normal Values

The pressure inside the middle ear can vary by 100 daPa (a very small amount). The eardrum should look smooth.

What abnormal results mean

Tympanometry may reveal any of the following:

Fluid in the middle ear
Perforated ear drum
Impacted ear wax
Scarring of the tympanic membrane
Lack of contact between the conduction bones of the middle ear
A tumor in the middle ear

What the risks are

There are no risks.

References

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:1733-1735.

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:3514.

Review Date:2/12/2007
Reviewed By:Alden J. Pearl, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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