[The influence of transtympanal gas insufflation on the tympanogram. Studies in cases of retracted or adhesive tympanic membranes and in middle ear models (author's transl)].

Transtympanal insufflation of the inert gas SF6 in cases of atelectasis mostly makes the atrophic tympanic membrane shift lateral, thus reaching a better functional position. The pathological tympanogram may become almost normal after insufflation. Model studies show that this is not only caused by equalisation of possible negative pressures but also by the enlargement of the middle ear volume and the improved position of the tympanic membrane.