Electromyogram of the tensor tympani muscle in man during swallowing

Experiments were carried out on 2 patients who underwent an operation for chronic otitis media, whereupon the tensor tympani muscle was visualized. A unipolar platinum electrode was inserted into the muscle belly. EMG recordings were made during swallowing and other motor activity. Distinct, pronounced EMG activity was recorded from both patients every time they swallowed. It was concluded that the tensor tympani muscle participates in the act of swallowing and thereby probably contributes to the ventilation of the middle ear.