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Wideband Tympanometry Findings in Otitis Media with Effusion-A Systematic Review
Jakub Osowski1,2,3, Bogusław Mikaszewski1,2, Tomasz Przewoźny1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Mariana Smoluchowskiego 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland.
Insights
Wideband tympanometry (WBT) shows promise for diagnosing otitis media with effusion (OME) in children. This audiological assessment identifies characteristic middle ear stiffness changes, aiding in early detection and preventing hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common pediatric condition with potential for permanent hearing loss.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent long-term complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of wideband tympanometry (WBT) for OME in children.
- To assess WBT's ability to differentiate between healthy and effusive middle ear conditions.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase (2000-2025).
- Data from 1115 ears with confirmed effusion and 721 healthy ears were analyzed.
- Absorbance patterns from WBT were compared between groups.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in absorbance values were noted in low- and mid-frequency ranges for ears with effusion.
- WBT absorbance parameters effectively distinguished between healthy children and those with surgically confirmed middle ear effusion.
- Characteristic alterations in absorbance patterns indicate increased middle ear stiffness in OME.
Conclusions:
- Wideband tympanometry can identify specific middle ear mechanical system changes associated with effusion.
- WBT presents a promising novel audiological tool for OME diagnosis in pediatric populations.
- Further research is needed to confirm clinical utility and compare WBT with existing diagnostic methods.
Abstract:
Background/Objective: Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a prevalent condition in the pediatric population worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as permanent middle ear damage and hearing loss. Methods: This study aims to evaluate the utility of wideband tympanometry (WBT) in diagnosing OME in children. A comprehensive literature search was conducted independently by two authors across three major databases-PubMed, Scopus, and Embase covering the period from 1 January 2000 to 11 November 2025. Discrepancies in data extraction or interpretation were resolved by consensus. Results: The study analyzed data from 1115 ears with surgically confirmed tympanic effusion and compared these with 721 ears from healthy controls. The most significant reduction in absorbance values was observed in the low- and mid-frequency ranges. These absorbance parameters effectively differentiated WBT results obtained in healthy children from those in patients with surgically confirmed effusion during myringotomy. Conclusions: In ears with effusion, characteristic alterations in absorbance patterns-reflecting increased stiffness of the middle ear's mechanical system-can be identified via wideband tympanometry. This novel audiological assessment shows promise for the diagnosis of OME; further research is warranted to validate its clinical utility and to compare it with existing diagnostic methods.
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