Recall that the eardrum's ability to move freely depends on the correct air pressure conditions. Using a machine called a tympanometer the audiologist can measure the air pressure behind the eardrum. This pressure measurement tells the audiologist if the Eustachian tube is functioning normally. After the pressure is determined, short loud beeps will be presented to measure the acoustic or stapedial reflex. This contraction of the muscles around stapes protects the inner ear from loud sounds by temporarily stiffening the eardrum.
Tympanograms are grouped into 3 categories or types which relate to the amount of movement present. Below are examples of each tympanogram type.
Type A |
Type C |
Type B |
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