Perforation of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) is making a hole, puncture or tear in the eardrum.

The condition may be traumatic resulting from objects accidentally placed in the ear canal or a sudden change in pressure (i.e. a slap). The most common cause is an inflammation of the middle ear that may cause inflammation and possibly destruction of the eardrum. The condition is often associated with chronic otitis media (see Diagnostic Code: 6201 Chronic nonsuppurative otitis media).

The condition may be characterized by sudden, severe pain and bleeding, possibly accompanied by a conductive hearing loss or tinnitus or both. Other signs and symptoms may include vertigo and purulent otorrhea.

Otoscopy and audiometry may be conducted.

The treatment is directed toward controlling infection with antibiotics (parenteral or topical). If the puncture does not heal spontaneously, surgery (tympanoplasty or ossiculoplasty) may be required.

There may be little or no permanent hearing loss.

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Notes

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