Niagara ENT & Facial Surgeon
Dr. Babak Karamy, MD, FRCSC
Patient Information for Tympanoplasty
What is Tympanoplasty?
Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to repair a perforated eardrum or middle ear structures. The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, separates the outer ear from the middle ear and plays a crucial role in transmitting sound vibrations.
When the eardrum is damaged due to injury, infection, or other causes, it may result in hearing loss, recurrent ear infections, or discomfort.
Indications for Tympanoplasty:
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Tympanoplasty may be recommended for individuals experiencing the following conditions:
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Perforated Eardrum: When the eardrum has a hole or tear that fails to heal on its own, causing hearing loss or recurrent ear infections.
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Chronic Otitis Media: When recurrent or persistent middle ear infections lead to eardrum damage or dysfunction.
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Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: When dysfunction of the Eustachian tube affects middle ear pressure regulation and causes eardrum problems.
What Happens During Tympanoplasty Surgery?
Tympanoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. The surgical technique used will depend on the extent and location of the eardrum perforation.
The two common types of tympanoplasty are:
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Myringoplasty: In this procedure, a small perforation in the eardrum is repaired with a tissue graft to close the hole and restore hearing.
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Tympanoplasty with Ossiculoplasty: This procedure involves repairing both the eardrum and the tiny bones in the middle ear (ossicles) if they are also damaged. The surgeon may use tissue grafts or prosthetic devices to reconstruct the middle ear structures.
The surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the repair.
Pre-Operative Instructions for Tympanoplasty
Before tympanoplasty, you will receive specific instructions from your healthcare provider, including:
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Medical Evaluation: Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to ensure you are in good health for the procedure.
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Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter supplements. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before the surgery.
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Fasting: You will likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a specified period before the surgery, usually starting at midnight the night before the procedure.
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Hearing Tests: Hearing tests may be conducted to assess your current hearing level and aid in planning the surgery.
Post-Operative Care & Instructions
After tympanoplasty, you will need to follow specific post-operative care instructions:
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Recovery Period: Plan for a few days of rest at home after the surgery. Avoid heavy lifting or straining.
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Ear Protection: Keep your ear dry and protect it from water exposure during the initial healing period.
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Medications: Take prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or ear drops, as instructed by your healthcare provider.
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Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and hearing improvement.
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Potential Risks of Tympanoplasty:
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While tympanoplasty is generally safe, it is essential to be aware of potential risks, which may include:
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Bleeding: Some mild bleeding is normal after the surgery, but significant bleeding is rare.
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Infection: Infections at the surgical site are uncommon but may occur.
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Perforation Recurrence: In some cases, the eardrum perforation may recur, requiring additional treatment.
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Hearing Changes: While the goal of tympanoplasty is to improve hearing, there may be a small chance of temporary or permanent changes in hearing.
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If you are experiencing concerning symptoms or have any questions after a procedure with Dr. Karamy, please contact us​. For emergencies, please go to urgent care.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.