MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia:Eardrum repair

Medical Encyclopedia

Eardrum repair - series: Indication

Eardrum repair - series
Illustrations:

Normal anatomy

Indication

Procedure

Aftercare

Ruptured or perforated eardrums are usually caused by middle-ear infections or trauma (for example, an object in the ear, a slap on the ear, explosions, or repeated, excessive ear pressure from flying or diving).

If healing does not occur with antibiotics or other non-operative treatment, surgery may be necessary.

Chronic middle ear infections are described as:

5 or more ear infections in a year, or
3 or more ear infections a year over a two-year period

Signs of chronic ear infections include persistent ear pain, ear drainage, or hearing loss (over a 3-month period).

Update Date: 7/15/2008

Updated by: Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolargyngologist, private practice, Denver, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.