Results of multiple-frequency tympanometry measures in normal and otosclerotic middle ears

Tympanometry is a non-invasive, quick, and inexpensive method for examining the middle-ear function. Its limited value in differentiating otosclerotic from normal middle ears caused researchers to develop new methods for evaluation of middle ears. Resonant frequency had been found to be higher in otosclerotic middle ears than normals. We conducted multiple-frequency tympanometry measurements in 25 surgically confirmed otosclerotic ears and 100 normal ears. Mean middle-ear resonant frequency for the otosclerotic group was found to be 1190 Hz and mean middle-ear resonant frequency of the control group was 934.6 Hz (p<0.001). With a cut off value of 1025 Hz (based on 95% confidence interval), sensitivity was 80% and specificity was 82%. The present findings confirm the advantage of the resonant frequency estimation over conventional tympanometry in detecting middle-ear status and mechanics in patients with otosclerosis. As a conclusion, detecting resonant frequency when evaluating patients for otosclerosis must be an essential part of examination. Nevertheless, further investigation is necessary for better diagnosis of otosclerosis preoperatively.