Publication:

Correlation of tympanic membrane perforations with hearing loss

Background Tympanic membrane perforations are common cause of hearing loss. This study was designed to analyze the relation between tympanic membrane perforation and hearing loss.

Methods In this prospective study, patients with dry tympanic membrane perforations of safe type were included. The patients were divided into groups in according to size, site and duration of perforation.

Results 49 patients with 70 dry tympanic membrane perforations were studied. Data was analyzed statistically using paired t-test. Hearing loss increased as the size of perforation increased. Posterior quadrant perforations were associated with more hearing loss as compared to anterior quadrant perforations. Also duration of disease was in linear relation with mean hearing loss.

Conclusions The degree of conductive hearing loss as a result of tympanic membrane perforation would be expected with the size, site and duration of perforation.