The ear consists of the outer, middle and inner ear. Sound waves are channelled along the ear canal to the ear drum. The impact of sound hitting the ear drum creates vibrations that causes the three little bones in the middle ear to move. These vibrations are then transmitted into the very sensitive inner ear (Cochlea). Here, the vibrations are converted into nerve impulses that go directly to the brain and interpret what we hear.

 

Quite often, a small hole in the eardrum may heal by itself. However if the hole in the eardrum is large, hearing may be reduced.

Normal ear drum	Perforated ear drum

 

Most ruptured eardrums heal without treatment within a few weeks, although some may take months. A hole in the eardrum that does not cause any problems can be left alone. If the tear or hole in your eardrum does not heal by itself, treatment involves steps to close the perforation would be necessary.

If an infection is present, you may need antibiotics.

If the injured eardrum is producing discharge, hearing loss or if you wish to swim, then it is advisable to have the hole repaired. The operation is called “myringoplasty”. You should discuss with your surgeon whether to have the surgery.

 

For a small hole, there is a 90% chance the operation can successfully close the hole. The success rate is reduced if the hole is large.

 

A myringoplasty is an operation to patch a hole in the eardrum. The operation may be done through your ear canal, or sometimes through an incision behind your ear. A small graft is taken and placed against the eardrum. After the operation, you may have an external dressing and a head bandage for a day.

 

Generally myringoplasty surgery is safe for most people. These potential complications are rare. They are:

• Dizziness (Vertigo)
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the ear)
• Altered taste
• A small nerve near the eardrum can sometimes be damaged. This can cause an abnormal taste on one side of the tongue. This is usually temporary but occasionally it can be permanent.
• Facial Weakness / Paralysis
• The facial nerve near the ear may be damaged. This may result in a temporary or permanent paralysis on one side of the face. However this is an extremely rare complication.

 

You will usually go home the day after the operation or sometimes on the same day. You should not drive after your operation, so please arrange for someone to send you home.

You will require at least one week to recover at home.

A small amount of discharge from the ear canal would be present. This usually comes from the ear dressings. The packing in the ear canal will be removed after 2 to 3 weeks.

During this recuperation period, please keep your ear dry and avoid vigorous blowing of the nose. Before showering, plug the ear with a ball of cotton wool.

If the ear becomes painful or swollen, please consult the Ear, Nose and Throat department at the hospital.