Early Results from a Pressureless Middle Ear Diagnostic and Its Relation to the Types of Tympanometry Results

Background/Objectives: Besides the clinical gold-standard tympanometry, several alternatives for middle ear diagnostics have evolved over the last decades. With the so-called pressureless acoustic impedance test, the Neuranix Medwave, another device came into play. Methods: Using a retrospective anonymous study approach, descriptive data reporting and the correlation between Medwave’s results and the types of tympanometry results were evaluated. Also, the correlation between the patients’ age and Medwave resulting parameters was evaluated. We were able to show changes in measurement results over time in the case of paracentesis and tube insertion. Results: The analyzed data show that it is possible to differentiate between tympanometry result type A and type B using the Medwave resulting parameter resonance frequency (fR) but not when using peak admittance (P). Between all other types, it was not possible to differentiate using the Medwave resulting parameters, nor fR not P. Regarding age, only for the tympanometry result type A, a correlation was found. The case over time showed a clear difference in the affected ear between the time before and after the ear surgeries, as well as the contralateral healthy ear. Conclusions: The Medwave device allows differentiation between a healthy ear (type A) and an immobile tympanic membrane (type B) using the resulting parameter fR. As parameters fR and P depend on age in type A, the manufacturer’s age-grouping with individual reference values makes sense. The case with countless measurements of time and paracentesis plus tube insertion showed the possibility of observing the tympanic status.