Total perforations of tympanic membrane digital illustration

Total perforations of tympanic membrane Save

ICD-10 code: H72.82

Chapter: Diseases of the ear and mastoid process

Total Perforations of Tympanic Membrane

The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is a thin membrane that separates the middle ear from the outer ear. It plays a crucial role in the process of hearing by vibrating in response to sound waves and transmitting these vibrations to the bones of the middle ear. However, the tympanic membrane can become perforated, which can cause hearing loss and other complications.

There are two types of perforations that can occur in the tympanic membrane: partial and total. Total perforations are those that involve the entire membrane, while partial perforations only involve a portion of the membrane.

  1. Causes of Total Perforations

    2. Total perforations can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

    • Direct trauma to the ear
    • Changes in air pressure, such as those experienced during air travel or scuba diving
    • Infection, such as otitis media
    • Tumors of the middle ear
    • Chronic exposure to loud noise
  2. Symptoms of Total Perforations

    3. Some of the symptoms of total perforations of the tympanic membrane include:

    • Hearing loss
    • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
    • Vertigo (dizziness)
    • Pain or discomfort in the ear
    • Drainage from the ear
  3. Treatment of Total Perforations

    4. Treatment for total perforations of the tympanic membrane will depend on the severity of the perforation and the underlying cause. In some cases, the perforation may heal on its own without medical intervention. However, in other cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the membrane.

  4. Prevention of Total Perforations

    5. Some steps that can be taken to prevent total perforations of the tympanic membrane include:

    • Protecting the ears from loud noise
    • Wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments
    • Avoiding inserting foreign objects into the ear, such as cotton swabs or pencils
    • Seeking prompt treatment for ear infections
    • Using caution when engaging in activities that involve changes in air pressure, such as air travel or scuba diving