Tympanometer

TYMPANOMETER

A tympanometer is a medical device that is used to test the condition of the middle ear and the mobility of the eardrum. It measures air pressure in the ear canal and how well does the eardrum move in response to change in that pressure.

It works by sending a gentle puff of air into the ear canal and measuring how eardrums response and move back and forth in that pressure. This helps doctors to understand if there is any blockage in middle ear or fluid, which cause hearing problem or ear infection.

This test is very quick and painless, and perform during routine hearing evaluations, especially for children’s.

SOME FEATURES OF TYMPANOMETER

Probe tone

Tympanometer produces a low-frequency tone that is sent into the ear canal through a probe tip.

Air pressure system

This machine has a system that can vary the air pressure in the ear canal, both increasing and decreasing it from the normal atmospheric pressure.

Measurement of compliance

As the air pressure changes, the tympanometer measure how eardrum moves back and forth, it is known as compliance.

Tympanogram

It displays the result in a graph known as tympanogram, it shows the compliance of the eardrum at different air pressure levels.

Eustachian tube function

Sometympanometers can also test the function of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps in regulating air pressure.

Automatic or manual operation

Modern tympanometers can be operated automatically or manually, depending on the model and user preferences.

Portability

Many tympanometers are designed to be portable and can easily transport for use in different settings like schools, hospitals, clinic etc.

Calibration

It requires regular calibration to ensure accurate measurement.

Disposable ear tips

Tympanometers use disposable ear tips and replaced after each patient to maintain hygiene.

Data Storage

Some advanced tympanometers can store and retrieve patient data for record keeping and analysis.

USES OF TYMPANOMETERS

Detecting middle ear disorders – It will identify fluid or negative pressure in the middle ear, which help to indicate conditions like otitis media, Eustachian tube dysfunction or cholesteatoma.

Evaluation of hearing – It is used as a comprehensive hearing assessment, mainly in newborn babies.

Monitoring Middle Ear status – It tracks changes in the middle ear during the treatment of middle ear infection or after surgery.

Eustachian tube function assessment – Evaluate the openness and function of the eustachian tube, essential for maintaining proper middle ear pressure.

Newborn hearing screening – It is included in newborn hearing screening programs to help or identify potential middle ear issues that affect hearing.

Research and clinical studies–it is used in research studies or investigating middle ear mechanics, hearing loss etc.

Ear Health Monitoring – Tympanometry is used for regular monitoring of ear health.

BENEFITS OF TYMPANOMETER

Early detection of middle ear disorder

It can detect fluid or pressure abnormalities in the middle ear at an early stage.

Objective and accurate measurements

It can provide objective, quantifiable data about middle ear condition.

Non-Invasive and safe

Typmpanometer is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause any discomfort or harm to the patient.

Quick and easy

Tympanometry test is quick and easy, takes only few minutes to complete.

Aids in diagnosis and treatment planning

Result obtained from tympanometry help doctors to diagnose middle ear conditions.

Cost-effective

Tympanometers are relatively inexpensive compared to other diagnostic equipment.

THE VITAL ROLE OF TYMPANOMETER FOR CLINICS / HOSPITAL

• It is an integral part of hearing evaluation, which allows healthcare professionals to provide accurate condition of the middle ear.
• Tympanometers are invaluable in diagnosis of various middle ear disorders, such as otitis media, Eustachian tube dysfunction and cholesteatoma.
• It is used for newborn baby hearing screening programs to identify potential middle ear issues that may affect hearing in infants.
• Tympanometers used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment of middle ear disorders.
• Tympanometry is performed before and after ear surgeries to evaluate the middle ear function and maintain the patient’s recovery.
• It is used for research or clinical studies to analyse the effectiveness of treatments.
• It is also cost-effective and efficient screening tool.

ESSENTIAL POINTS TO NOTE BEFORE BUYING TYMPANOMETER

• What is the purpose of typmpanometer, whether it is used in diagnostic purpose, screening programs, research studies or a combination of this application. Also consider the target population you will be testing.
• Ensure tympanometers meets the required accuracy standards as per your need and use.
• Evaluate the measurement capability of the typmpanometer.
• Look for features like touchscreens, automatic modes and intuitive software.
• If you are planning to use the typmpanometer in multiple locations or filed, consider a portable device and durable device.
• Evaluate data management capabilities of typmpanometer, including storage and patient’s data transfer.
• Make sure that the typmpanometer has infection control measures, like disposable ear tips or probe covers, to maintain hygiene.
• Research the manufacture’s reputation, experience and customer support network before purchasing.
• Verify the typmpanometer complies with relevant regulatory standards and guidelines for medical devices.
• If there is any tympanometer for sale, then purchase accordingly.
• Consider the cost-effectiveness – Consider the cost of typmpanometer and any additional accessories or consumable required.

MAINTENANCE OF TYMPANOMETER

• Regular calibration is essential for accuracy of the typmpanometer measurement.
• Follow manufacturer’s guideline for cleaning and disinfection.
• Replace disposable ear tips after each patient to maintain hygiene.
• Typmpanometer air system require periodic maintenance or cleaning.
• If the tympanometers are battery operated, then replace the batteries as recommended.
• Check software updates from manufacturer and install them as recommended.
• Handle the typmpanometer with care to prevent damage from drops or impacts.
• Perform routine checks of the tympanometers.
• Maintain accurate records of activities, calibrations and any repairs or replacement performed on the tympanometer.

COST OF TYMPANOMETER IN INDIA

Tympanometer price can vary depending on brand, model and features.

Basic Tympanometer – These basic modelswith essential features tympanometer priceis ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 150,000.

Advanced Tympanometer – These models offer additional features like automatic testing and also other features cost for ₹ 150,000 to ₹ 300,000.

High-end or diagnostic Tympanometers –These have a wide range of features, including multiple probe tones, high frequency, advanced data management and reporting capabilities. Price is around ₹ 300,000 to ₹ 600,000.

BRANDS

Interacoustics

This is Danissh company which offers a range of tympanometers, including the MT10 Immittance, Titan and AA222 models.

Maico

This is an American model that provides models such as MI 24, MI 26 and MI 34.

Amplivox

This is a British company which offers models AmplivoxOtowave Tympanometer and AmplivoxOtowwave portable tympanometer.

Inventis

It is an Italian company that manufactures Tympanometers such as Inventis Trumpet and Inventis Via models.

Welch Allyn

It is known for their otoscopes, Welch Allyn also produces tympanometrs like Welch Allyn Micro tymp 3 and welch allyn O to Read.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. What is a tympanometer?

Ans. It is a diagnostic instrument that is used to measure the mobility of eardrum and air pressure in middle ear space.

Q. How does a tympanometer work?

Ans. A Tympanometer sends a tone in the ear canal and measures the energy of sound reflected from the eardrum.It also varies the air pressure in the ear canal and measures the eardrum’s response to the changing pressure.

Q. Is a tympanometer test painful or uncomfortable?

Ans. No, a tympanometry test is not painful or uncomfortable. The patient may feel a slight pressure in the ear during the test, but it is not painful.

Q. How long does a tympanometry test take?

Ans. It is very quick, usually take a few minutes for each ear.

Q. Who performs tympanometry test?

Ans. It is performed by audiologists, otolaryngologists and other trained healthcare professionals.

Q. Van tympanometry be performed on infants and young children?

Ans. Yes, it can be performed on Infants and young children. Special techniques and equipment may be used for smaller ear canal size for accurate results.