Is it possible to do an MRT with a tympanic tube?
It must be decided in each individual case whether an MRI can be performed without any problems with a lying tympanic tube. The implant manufacturer should be consulted for precise information. In general, however, it depends mainly on the material of the timpani tube whether the magnetic field built up is disturbed during the examination. As a general rule, timpani tubes with silicone are generally harmless for an MRI and metal-containing tubes require further consultation. In any case, the person concerned must always truthfully state the presence of a tympani tube so that no damage is caused by the examination.
The special features of the tympani tube in adults
The real peculiarity of the timpani tube in adults is that it is less frequently required. In fact, the greatest risk of middle ear infections with an accumulation of secretions can be found in childhood. Adults rarely suffer from this disease.
However, if a tympanic tube is necessary, the procedure and handling is exactly the same as for children. However, the procedure is almost always performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, whereas in small children it is more likely to be performed under a short general anesthesia. Regarding the everyday use of the tympani tube, adults may be exposed to different circumstances than children.
In concrete terms, this means, for example, that in the case of noise exposure at work, adults should protect themselves sufficiently by means of adequate hearing protection when the timpani tube is lying down. In contrast to children, the few adults also have more chronic courses that require long-term therapy. It is therefore not uncommon for the tympani to remain in place for up to one year. Here it is important to exclude other factors as possible causes and to treat them if necessary. In adults, for example, the paranasal sinuses and the mouth and throat area must be examined as possible triggers.
