Eardrum perforation

Diagnosis

An eardrum perforation is a hole in the eardrum. It can result from acute or chronic middle ear infection, from injuries such as cotton swabs or a blow to the ear, or from sudden pressure changes. Possible symptoms include pain, hearing loss, ringing in the ear and discharge from the ear. Diagnosis is made by ear microscopy and a hearing test.

Water should be kept out of the ear until it has healed.

Treatment options

Small perforations caused by injury often heal on their own; sometimes the eardrum is splinted with a thin film. If the perforation persists, for example with chronic inflammation, it can be closed surgically (myringoplasty or tympanoplasty), usually with the body’s own tissue such as cartilage or fascia. The aim is an intact eardrum, fewer infections and, where possible, better hearing.