Tympanocentesis is the drainage of fluid from the

middle ear The middle ear is the portion of the ear medial to the eardrum, and distal to the oval window of the cochlea (of the inner ear). The mammalian middle ear contains three ossicles (malleus, incus, and stapes), which transfer the vibrations ...

, usually caused by

otitis media Otitis media is a group of Inflammation, inflammatory diseases of the middle ear. One of the two main types is acute otitis media (AOM), an infection of rapid onset that usually presents with ear pain. In young children this may result in pullin ...

, by using a small-gauge needle to puncture the

tympanic membrane In the anatomy of humans and various other tetrapods, the eardrum, also called the tympanic membrane or myringa, is a thin, cone-shaped membrane that separates the external ear from the middle ear. Its function is to transmit changes in pressur ...

(eardrum). It is indicated in children with acute otitis media who are susceptible to complications like facial paresis and systemic toxicity, or failed treatment with antibiotics. It may relieve pain, but symptoms may recur if there is ongoing inflammation from the infection. It is sometimes referred to as a "tap" and, when conducted twice as part of a clinical trial of medication, a "double tap." Tympanocentesis was first documented in 1768, but has undergone significant advancements. The treatment should not be used in the following situations: * Uncooperative patient * Intact tympanostomy tubes * Intratympanic tumour * Acute otitis externa (due to potential to introduce bacteria or fungi from the external to the middle ear) * Vascular abnormalities (due to high risk of bleeding) * Suboptimal visibility of ear landmarks

References

External links

* http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/Tympanocentesis-for-ear-infections
fda.gov

Figure 1: Tympanocentesis Contributed by S Bhimji, MD
from: Ear surgery {{Surgery-stub

See also

References

External links