The Elastic Properties of the Tympanic Membrane System

Abstract

A method has been worked out for recording the volume displacement of the drum towards the closed middle ear as a function of the pressure change in the ear canal. From these recordings we can calculate the elastic properties of the tympanic membrane system. Studies of this kind have not been published previously. In 101 cases with normal ears we found a varying degree of mobility of the drum. The mobility increases in cases with a slightly reduced tubal function as compared with cases with a perfect tubal function. This finding is explained by an increased pressure load on the tympanic membrane system when the pressure regulating capacity of the tube is reduced. The present method seems to facilitate analysis of pathological processes in the middle ear.