What is a tympanometer?
A tympanometer is a tool used in healthcare to examine the functionality and health of the middle ear. It analyzes how the eardrum responds to alterations in air pressure and can be used to identify ear problems such as eustachian tube malfunction and middle ear infections like otitis media. Read about the maico audiometer.
A tiny probe is placed into the ear canal during a tympanometry exam, and a sequence of vibrations or changes in pressure is then administered. Both the volume of sound that is reflected from the eardrum and the force necessary to move the eardrum is measured by the apparatus. The results are shown on a graph known as a tympanogram, which can reveal details about the compliance, pressure, and volume of the middle ear. Have you heard about the Welch Allyn Audiometer.
How a Tympanometer Works- The Principle
The process of using a tympanometer work is tympanometry. In ENT and audiology clinics, tympanometry is a non-invasive, painless test that is frequently performed. It can help diagnose and keep track of ear disorders, as well as for evaluating the efficacy of therapies like ear tubes or hearing aids. Read about the principle of the tissue processor.
When the air pressure varies, the eardrum moves, which is then measured using a tympanometer. The system comprises of an ear-canal-inserted probe and a control unit that produces and measures sound and pressure stimuli.
Tympanometry tests involve sealing the probe tip inside the ear canal to form an airtight seal. The amount of sound that is reflected from the eardrum is then measured after the probe produces a series of tones or pressure variations.
By altering the air pressure inside the ear canal, the tympanometer may also gauge the force necessary to move the eardrum. While the probe is in place, this pressure is gradually increased and decreased, and the apparatus monitors the movement of the eardrum at each pressure level.
The outcomes are shown on a graph known as a tympanogram, which depicts the movement of the eardrum in reaction to pressure variations. The compliance, pressure, and volume of the middle ear can be inferred from the tympanogram’s shape.
What are the types of Tympanograms?
- Type A: This is a typical tympanogram, meaning that the middle ear compliance is within normal bounds and the peak pressure is in the usual range. This shows that there are no substantial blockages or fluid accumulations, and the middle ear is operating normally.
- Type B: The tympanogram is flat, with no peaks on the graph, and the middle ear compliance is low. This suggests a severe blockage or fluid buildup in the middle ear, which can be brought on by illnesses including otitis media, a perforated eardrum, or a dysfunctional Eustachian tube.
- Type C: The middle ear compliance is normal, and the peak pressure is negative. This suggests that there is negative pressure in the middle ear, which may be brought on by ailments including upper respiratory infections, allergies, or Eustachian tube malfunction.
- Type As: Although the middle ear’s compliance is less than ideal, this tympanogram’s peak pressure is still within the usual range. This may be a sign of middle ear rigidity, which may be brought on by disorders like otosclerosis or ossicular fixation.
- Type Ad: Although the middle ear’s compliance is higher than usual, this tympanogram’s peak pressure is still within the normal range. This could mean that the middle ear’s ossicles have been disrupted or dislocated, which could be brought on by trauma or a congenital defect. Read about the GSI audiometers.
A step-by-step guide to using the tympanometer
It’s crucial to remember that depending on the brand and model of the instrument, the precise instructions for utilizing a tympanometer may change. For comprehensive instructions on correct use and maintenance, refer to the user handbook. The test should also be conducted by a qualified medical practitioner, such as an otolaryngologist or audiologist, to guarantee accurate and trustworthy results. Read on how to use the iris urine analyzer.
- Preparation: The patient should be made aware of the procedure and any potential discomfort before the test as well as any possible side effects. Any earplugs or hearing aids should be taken out by the patient as well.
- Positioning: During the exam, the patient should be calmly seated in a comfortable position. A snug-fitting tip is used to seal the probe once it has been placed into the ear canal
- Calibration: To get reliable readings, the tympanometer should be calibrated by the manufacturer’s recommendations
- Testing: The test will be started by the operator sending various tones or pressure variations through the probe. The eardrum’s response to the stimuli is measured by the probe.
- Interpretation: A graph known as a tympanogram is used to show the test results. The compliance, pressure, and volume of the middle ear can be inferred from the tympanogram’s shape. If more testing or treatment is required, the operator should interpret the findings.
- Cleaning: To stop the spread of infection, the probe tip should be cleaned and disinfected as directed by the manufacturer after the test.
How often is a tympanometry conducted?
When there are questions concerning middle ear function, a tympanometer exam is frequently conducted. It can be used to identify illnesses that affect the middle ear, including otitis media (middle ear infection), Eustachian tube dysfunction, ruptured eardrums, and other ailments. When assessing kids with chronic ear infections or hearing issues, it is extremely helpful.
Does getting a tympanometry hurt?
Tympanometer testing is not uncomfortable. Although the technique is normally well tolerated and non-invasive, it may occasionally result in slight discomfort or pressure sensations in the ear due to fluctuations in air pressure.
Final thoughts
The tympanometer is an essential device for ENT specialists and audiologists to detect defects in the ear. Their work aids physicians and pharmacists to prescribe the right drug for the defect with less difficulty, The tympanometer should be available in all health institutions to help in improving the health care delivery of the community. Another device that can improve health care delivery is the Smartlyte plus electrolyte analyzer.