Overview
Perforation of the tympanic membrane can lead to hearing loss and exposure of the middle ear to the outer environment. Its most common cause is infection (such as otitis media) followed by barotrauma (e.g. sudden air pressure changes, diving, or explosions), or direct trauma (e.g. inserting items into the ear to remove earwax).
Perforation can lead to hearing loss depending on the degree of perforation, as the tympanic membrane aids hearing by transmitting vibrations to the middle and inner ear.
Management
Overview
In most cases, a perforated tympanic membrane resolves within 6-8 weeks spontaneously.
- Antibiotics are often given if perforation occurs secondary to infection (e.g. acute otitis media)
- If the tympanic membrane does not heal by itself, myringoplasty may be considered
