Tympanic membrane
The eardrum, a thin membrane that serves as a partition between the external ear and the middle ear and transmits the motion of sound waves to the chain of bones in the middle ear.
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- Tympanites
a distension of the abdomen caused by accumulation of gas in the intestinal tract or peritoneal cavity.
- Tympano-
Prefix indicating a relationship to the eardrum (tympanic membrane), as in tympanometry (a test that measures the function of the middle ear).
- Tympanometry
A test that measures the function of the middle ear. Tympanometry works by varying the pressure within the ear canal and measuring the movement of the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
- Tympanoplasty
A surgical operation to correct damage to the middle ear and restore the integrity of the eardrum.
- Tympanostomy tube
A small plastic tube inserted into the eardrum to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time. These ventilating tubes usually remain in place for 6 months to several years. Eventually, most will move out of the eardrum (extrude) and fall out into the ear canal. Also called ear tubes.