Extended high-frequency audiometry in traumatic tympanic membrane perforations.

Air- and bone-conduction audiometry in the frequency ranges 0.125-18 kHz and 0.25-16 kHz respectively were performed in 38 patients with unilateral traumatic tympanic membrane perforation. Sensorineural threshold elevation was found in 16 ears. In nine of these this was permanent and in four restricted to the frequency range > 8 kHz. Both sensorineural threshold elevation and tinnitus (n = 16) diminished with time. A temporary, mean 5 dB, bone-conduction threshold elevation > or = 8 kHz was seen in 26 ears before spontaneous tympanic membrane closure. Closure resulted in a 7-20 dB improvement of air-conduction thresholds in the 0.125-18 kHz range, somewhat less in the upper than in the lower frequencies. A 3 dB mean final conductive hearing loss > 8 kHz was found in these 26 ears approximately 5 months after injury, probably due to scars in the pars tensa at the site of the former perforations. Thirty-seven of 38 perforations had healed at final follow-up examination.