Chapter 6 Special Sensory Organs: Eye and Ear 267 recognize different pitches, and distinguish speech from background noise. The test evaluates hearing loss and aids the physician in determining whether a patient needs a hearing aid. Myringotomy A myringotomy (mĭr-ĭng-GŎT-ō-mē), also called a tympanostomy (TĬM-păn-ŎS-tō-mē), is a surgical procedure in which a small incision is made in the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to relieve pressure and inflam- mation caused by fluid accumulation in the middle ear (Figure 6.13). Tympanostomy tubes, small tubes that are open at both ends, are inserted into the surgically created opening. The procedure allows drainage of fluid or pus (effusion) and provides ventilation to the middle ear in patients suf- fering from otitis media. The tubes are left in place until they fall out by themselves or are removed by a physician. Myringoplasty Myringoplasty (mĭr-ĬNG-gō-plăst-ē), also known as tympanoplasty (TĬM-păn-ō-PLĂS-tē), is the surgical repair of a perforated tympanic mem- brane (hole in the eardrum). A perforated eardrum is usually caused by an infection in the middle ear that burst through the eardrum, but it may also result from trauma. A perforated tympanic membrane may lead to repeated ear infections and hearing loss. Surgery can prevent recurring ear infection and sometimes improve hearing. Eustachian tube Tube Eardrum Figure 6.13 Myringotomy