To Assess the Effect of Duration and Size of Perforation of Tympanic Membrane on Hearing in Patients of Chronic Otitis Media Mucosal Type.

BACKGROUND

Tympanic membrane perforation is one of the most common causes of hearing impairment. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of duration and size of perforation and its correlation with hearing loss in patients of chronic suppurative otitis media.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective study of 100 patients with mild-to-moderate hearing loss up to 60 dB. A complete medical history was taken each time before a thorough examination and test evaluation. Depending on the size, location, and length of the perforation, all patients with dry tympanic membrane perforation who did not have active middle ear disease at the time of presentation were evaluated for hearing loss.

RESULTS

A higher proportion of hearing loss was found in the lower age groups. A significant relationship was found between hearing loss and perforation diameter ( P = 0.023). A higher proportion of hearing loss was observed at higher perforation diameters. Duration of perforation showed a significant positive correlation between air conduction and duration of perforation ( r = 0.205, P = 0.041). Subjects were more likely to have air conduction falling into the 25-40 category compared to <25 at lower age, higher duration, and smaller size.

CONCLUSION

Hearing loss showed that most subjects had air conduction in the range of 25-40 (66%). If the perforation occurs at a lower age, hearing loss is more likely. Hearing loss was significantly associated with the diameter of the perforation ( P = 0.023).