Intratympanic injections
Intratympanic injection method
Intratympanic injection is the method of administering drugs directly into the inner ear, where the organ of hearing and balance is located, achieving maximum concentration of the drug.
The injection is done using a special thin needle and with the patient in a supine position. The doctor carefully examines the tympanic membrane with the aid of an otomicroscope, locates the puncture site and, after a brief local anaesthetic, penetrates the tympanic membrane and injects the drug into the middle ear.
Preparation
No special preparation is required from the patient. The doctor will examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane before the injection and if no other pathology or inflammation is present, proceeds with the puncture.
Instructions
The patient is asked to remain lying on his/her side for about 20 minutes and avoid stressful movements as long as possible. Because a small hole is made in the eardrum, care must be taken to prevent water from entering the ear. The hole usually closes by itself so that the patient does not need to take any further precautions.
Indications and Active Substance
- Sudden Hearing Loss Cortisone (Dexamethasone)
- Meniere's disease Gentamicin
