Definition
A tympanic tube is a small tube inserted into the eardrum that creates a connection from the external auditory canal to the middle ear. Figuratively speaking, it ensures that there is a hole in the eardrum for a certain period of time. It can be made of a variety of materials, such as silicone or titanium, depending on what is needed. The therapeutic objective of the tympanic tube is to allow secretions to drain from the middle ear and thus ensure good ventilation of the tympanic cavity. The healing of inflammatory or injury-related processes in the area of the middle ear is thus promoted.
When do I need a timpani tube?
Any accumulation of secretion in the middle ear can be an indication for a tympanic tube. This most frequently occurs in the context of inflammation of the middle ear. The decision to insert a tube depends mainly on the amount of fluid accumulated and less on the type of secretion.
During the medical examination, this can be determined by examining the eardrum. The more secretion has accumulated in the middle ear, the more the eardrum deflects in the direction of the examiner. An outwardly bulging eardrum thus indicates that the pressure in the middle ear is too high, which may have to be relieved by means of a tympanic tube.
A further indication for the examiner is the “hammer handle” located in the middle of the eardrum as part of the ossicles. If the fluid level exceeds this anatomical structure, the indication for a tympanic tube in connection with the symptoms of the affected person should be considered at the latest then. Since the eardrum is also parchment-like, both the structures behind it and the nature of the secretion can be guessed.
Yellow-white secretion indicates inflammatory processes with pus formation and reddish secretion indicates a bloody accumulation of fluid. These two secretion colors sometimes also indicate the presence of a tympanic tube, as inflammation can spread towards the inner ear and blood can clog the ossicles. In this case, however, the exact assessment of an ENT physician is required.
