What is tympanometry used to assess?

Tympanometry is a diagnostic test used to assess the function of the middle ear by measuring the mobility of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) in response to changes in air pressure. This test evaluates how well the eardrum moves when air pressure is varied in the ear canal, providing valuable information about the state of the middle ear, including the presence of fluid, eustachian tube function, or any potential obstructions that may be affecting the eardrum’s ability to vibrate.

The measurement is often represented on a graph called a tympanogram, which can indicate various types of middle ear conditions. Understanding the mobility of the tympanic membrane is crucial for diagnosing possible issues such as otitis media or eustachian tube dysfunction, making this assessment essential in audiological practice. Other options, such as the function of the inner ear or hearing sensitivity, do not relate directly to the purpose of tympanometry, as it specifically targets the middle ear's functionality.