Eardrum Perforation

In middle ear infections, a spontaneous rupture in the eardrum may occur. In this case, a bloody inflammatory discharge is observed at the entrance of the ear canal. With appropriate treatment, most heal on their own. Untreated middle ear fluid accumulation can cause collapse and perforation of the eardrum in the long term.

Generally, the larger the hole, hearing loss increases. The location of the hole in the eardrum also affects hearing. The most common causes of a hole in the eardrum are childhood infections and blows to the ear. If the eardrum is pierced as a result of a sudden impact or explosion, hearing loss may be severe and tinnitus may be added to the complaints. In this case, hearing returns over time and tinnitus subsides within a few days. Constant inflammation due to the eardrum hole can lead to severe hearing loss.

Before starting the treatment of the hole, a hearing test should be performed. The benefits of eardrum repair include preventing water from entering the middle ear while showering, bathing or swimming, improving hearing and reducing tinnitus. If the hole is very small, ear-nose-throat physicians may prefer to follow it for a while to see if it will close on its own. Under a microscope, your doctor may stimulate the edges of the hole with a chemical substance and place a piece of paper on it to allow it to close again. An improvement in hearing is usually felt as the eardrum closes. Patching may be required several times (once or twice) for the hole to close completely. If the doctor decides that the hole in the membrane will not close completely and well with this patching process performed by your doctor, the operation is planned. There are many operation methods, but the basic principle in all of them is to repair the hole with tissues taken from the patient and, if there is damage to the middle ear bones, to correct it and leave it to heal. The operation usually ensures complete closure of the hole and recovery of hearing.