MUSC ENT: Treatment of Hole in The Eardrum

“A hole in the eardrum may not be as complex as some ailments, but it does make a big impact on quality of life and can become serious over time,” says Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) otologist Paul R. Lambert, M.D.

The eardrum is about the size of your first fingernail. A hole can range in size from a very small puncture to the entire eardrum. A small hole may heal itself naturally, but most cases require surgical repair.

A perforation needs to be repaired for three reasons. First, the middle ear behind the eardrum becomes more prone to infection. Infection occurs as germs pass through the opening, usually carried there by water in the ear canal. Second, eardrum holes often cause hearing loss, since sound is not properly conducted into the cochlea (inner ear where sound is processed). Third, recurrent infection, evidenced by drainage, can cause further harm, such as damage to one or more of the the three middle ear bones, adding an additional layer of complexity to the repair process.

No two eardrum holes are the same, as several variables play a role in each case. For example, the ear canal shape and position of the eardrum hole can affect access to the hole. If skin has grown through the hole or if the ear bones have been affected, the condition becomes more complex.

MUSC ENT would be pleased to assist you or your loved ones. Please give us a call at 843-792-3531 to schedule an appointment with our team. We look forward to meeting you, to help you on your path to a healthy quality of life.