The tympanic membrane (TM), or “eardrum,” is a thin and mobile three-layered barrier that separates the external auditory canal (EAC) from the middle ear space and hearing bones (oss...
Otorrhea/ear drainage (pus, blood, or clear fluid)
Otalgia or earache consistent with AOM (perhaps associated with sudden relief)
Tinnitus or buzzing (unilateral)
Self-audible whistling ...
Most perforations are non-urgent and do not require immediate evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ENT). Often, they can be managed with ototopical drops and pain control to de...
Follow-up should be done to confirm TM healing and to obtain an audiogram with tympanometry.
Reexamine the ear, especially after an episode of in...
H72.90 Unsp perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear
H72.00 Central perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear
H72.2X9 Other marginal perforations of tympanic membrane, unsp e...
To evaluate a patient with a suspected TM perforation, history and physical exam are important. Audiogram will ultimately be indicated for nonhealing perforations, and imaging may be i...
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