0
Tympanometry is a test used to detect disorders of the middle ear.
Alternative NamesTympanogram
How the test is performedBefore 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 placed 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 testYou 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 feelThere 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 performedThis test measures your ear's responses to the sound and different pressures.
Normal ValuesThe pressure inside the middle ear can vary by 100 daPa (a very small amount). The eardrum should look smooth.
What abnormal results meanTympanometry may reveal any of the following:
- A tumor in the middle ear
- Fluid in the middle ear
- Impacted ear wax
- Lack of contact between the conduction bones of the middle ear
- Perforated ear drum
- Scarring of the tympanic membrane
There are no risks.
ReferencesSeidman MD, Simpson GT II, Khan MJ. Common problems of the ear. In: Noble J, eds. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2001:chap 178.
Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:3514.
Reviewed ByReview Date: 04/26/2010
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
What else can I help you with?
Which diagnostic procedure is an indirect measurement of acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear?
Tympanometry is the diagnostic procedure that indirectly measures the acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear. It evaluates the mobility of the eardrum and the conduction bones by varying air pressure in the ear canal.
Which term means indirect measurement of the acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear?
The term you are looking for is "tympanometry." It is a test that measures how the middle ear responds to sound and can help diagnose conditions affecting the middle ear.
What would tympanometry be used to measure?
Tympanometry - A test which measures the function of the middle ear by varying the pressures within the ear canal.
What would a tympanometry be used to measure?
Tympanometry is used to measure the mobility of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the functioning of the middle ear. It assesses the pressure in the ear canal and can help detect conditions such as fluid in the middle ear, eustachian tube dysfunction, or perforated eardrum. By evaluating how well the eardrum responds to changes in air pressure, tympanometry aids in diagnosing various auditory disorders.
What is the diagnostic procedure used to assess damage to the middle ear?
The procedure is known as tympanometry.
Which diagnostic procedure is an indirect measurement of acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear?
Tympanometry is the diagnostic procedure that indirectly measures the acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear. It evaluates the mobility of the eardrum and the conduction bones by varying air pressure in the ear canal.
Which diagnostic test involves the use of air pressure in the ear canal to test for disorders of the middle ear?
tympanometry
What is the intensity level of probe tone in tympanometry?
In tympanometry, the intensity level of the probe tone typically ranges from 226 Hz for adults and 1000 Hz for children. This probe tone is used to assess the mobility of the tympanic membrane and middle ear function by measuring the acoustic admittance as the pressure in the ear canal is varied. The intensity level is generally set at a safe volume to ensure accurate measurement without discomfort to the patient.
Which term means indirect measurement of the acoustical energy absorbed or reflected by the middle ear?
The term you are looking for is "tympanometry." It is a test that measures how the middle ear responds to sound and can help diagnose conditions affecting the middle ear.
Can a urine test detect an ear infection?
No, a urine test cannot detect an ear infection. Urine tests are used to detect substances in the urine, while ear infections are typically diagnosed through physical examination and possibly other tests like a tympanometry or a culture of ear discharge.
3. What diagnostic procedure would be used to assess damage to the middle ear?
A tympanometry test is commonly used to assess damage to the middle ear. This diagnostic procedure measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure, helping to identify fluid buildup, eustachian tube dysfunction, or perforations. Additionally, an otoscopic examination may be performed to visually inspect the ear canal and eardrum for any abnormalities.
What are the signs and symptoms of a middle ear infection, and how can they be identified and treated effectively?
Signs and symptoms of a middle ear infection include ear pain, fluid drainage from the ear, hearing loss, and fever. It can be identified through a physical examination by a healthcare provider and confirmed with a tympanometry test. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, pain relievers, and possibly ear tubes for chronic infections. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for effective treatment.
What are the common middle ear infection symptoms in infants and how can they be identified and treated effectively?
Common middle ear infection symptoms in infants include ear pain, fussiness, difficulty sleeping, fever, and pulling or tugging at the ears. These infections can be identified by a healthcare provider through a physical examination and possibly a tympanometry test. Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, pain relievers, and possibly ear drops. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for effective treatment.
What are the common otitis media symptoms in children and how can they be identified and treated effectively?
Common symptoms of otitis media in children include ear pain, fever, irritability, difficulty hearing, and fluid drainage from the ear. It can be identified through a physical examination by a healthcare provider and confirmed with a tympanometry or otoscopy. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, pain relievers, and in some cases, ear tube placement to drain fluid. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for effective treatment.
