Tympanometry

If your physician suspects that your child might have hearing loss associated with his middle ear, tympanometry might be used. This is a test of middle ear function, not a test of hearing thresholds.

• Tympanometry provides a measure of the health of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the middle ear space behind it, by recording the compliance of the tympanic membrane as varying degrees of air pressure are introduced into the ear canal.
   
• Your doctor will perform this test by placing a rubber-tipped probe in your child's ear canal while your child sits on your lap.
   
• A reading will be available in just a few seconds.
   
• The results of the tympanogram can help your pediatrician or otolaryngologist assess middle ear fluid, Eustachian tube dysfunction, tympanic membrane perforations, and whether ear tubes are open or blocked.