The eardrum is a structure inside the ear canal that protects the inner parts of the ear. The eardrum is normally intact. If a perforation of the eardrum occurs, this should be examined by a specialist in ear diseases.

Most often, a perforation in the eardrum heals over time by itself, but if this does not happen, an ear operation to close the perforation in the eardrum may be considered

How does a perforation in the eardrum occur?

Perforation of the eardrum in children most often occurs when a tympanostomy tube has fallen out and the eardrum subsequently does not heal by itself.  
 
Perforation of the eardrum in adults occurs more often because there is negative pressure in the middle ear and the eardrum is therefore sucked into the middle ear. This makes the eardrum slack and weak and can lead to a perforation in the eardrum. Negative pressure in the middle ear is caused by poor function of the Eustachian tube, which is a narrow tube that connects the nasopharynx with the middle ear.  
 
Other causes of perforation of the eardrum can be sequelae of middle ear infection or a blow to the ear.

What symptoms does a perforation in the eardrum cause?

A small perforation in the eardrum can cause a slight hearing loss, while large perforations in the eardrum can cause significant hearing loss. When there is a perforation in the eardrum, bacteria from the ear canal can gain access to the middle ear through the perforation. This can cause inflammation of the eardrum and middle ear with ear discharge, pain and bad odour. Middle ear infection often occurs when bathing in bacteria-filled water, for example in the swimming pool.

Examination

If a perforation of the eardrum is suspected, CPH Privathospital offers an outpatient consultation with an ear, nose and throat doctor who specialises in ear surgery. A thorough endoscopic examination of the ears, mouth, throat and nasopharynx is performed. The ear, nose and throat doctor also performs a microscopic examination (microscopy) of the eardrum in both ears, as well as a hearing test with measurement of the pressure in the ears.

Treatment

Closure of a perforation in the eardrum is one of the ear operations most frequently performed in both children and adults.  
The perforation can be closed by an operation under general anaesthesia. The operation can usually be performed through the ear canal, but in some cases it may be necessary to operate behind the ear to gain access to the eardrum. The perforation in the eardrum is patched with a graft, which is taken from under the skin above the ear or under the skin in the ear canal. The operation thus results in a small scar under the hairline above the ear or in the ear canal. If it has been necessary to operate behind the ear, you will have a scar behind the ear.  
 
In case of hearing loss, hearing can usually become significantly better when the perforation in the eardrum is closed. In case of frequent middle ear infections, the operation will prevent infections. 

Same doctor and rapid treatment

Whether the symptoms have occurred acutely or are of a longer-lasting nature, you should be seen by a consultant in ear, nose and throat. Our consultants are ready to help you, so you can quickly receive the correct diagnosis, whether you are a private payer, have health insurance or come through the public waiting time guarantee.

All examinations can take place at CPH Privathospital, and you therefore have the same experienced consultant throughout the entire course of treatment.