Final answer:
Tympanotomy and myringotomy are surgical procedures involving an incision in the eardrum to relieve pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear. This can help restore normal function to the Eustachian tube and improve hearing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The terms tympanotomy and myringotomy refer to the surgical procedure performed on the ear, specifically a small incision made in the tympanic membrane (eardrum). This procedure is often necessary when there is a need to relieve pressure or drain fluid from the middle ear. The Eustachian tube, a small passage between the nasopharynx and the middle ear, normally allows pressure to equalize across the tympanic membrane. However, when this function is impaired due to inflammation, infection, or other causes, it can result in a build-up of pressure and fluid. Myringotomy or tympanotomy may also involve the placement of a small tube to allow continuous drainage and to maintain the equalization of pressure, thereby improving hearing and preventing further infections.
Due to increased pressure from the middle ear, as may happen during infection, this procedure can relieve the discomfort and reduce the risk of complications such as a torn membrane and damage to the ossicles of the middle ear, as described in figure 22.7a and 22.7b. When performed, this intervention can also restore normal function to the Eustachian tube, as its role in equilibrating air pressure is critical for the proper function of the auditory system, including the transduction of sound waves into neural signals which is essential for hearing.