Intratympanic injections are a procedure where medication is injected directly into the middle ear through the eardrum. This method is commonly used to treat conditions affecting the inner ear, such as Meniere’s disease, sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and autoimmune inner ear disease.

Here’s a breakdown of the procedure:

• Preparation: The ear is cleaned, and a numbing agent is applied.
• Injection: A thin needle is inserted through the eardrum into the middle ear space. The medication is then slowly injected.
• Recovery: Patients typically lie still for a short period to allow the medication to reach the inner ear.

Benefits of intratympanic injections:

• Targeted delivery: The medication is delivered directly to the affected area, potentially increasing effectiveness and reducing side effects compared to oral medications.
• Outpatient procedure: The procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed in an outpatient set up without the need for hospital admission.

Risks of intratympanic injections:

• Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur during the procedure.
• Dizziness: Some patients may experience temporary dizziness or vertigo.
• Hearing changes: In rare cases, hearing loss or tinnitus may occur.

Overall, intratympanic injections are a safe and effective treatment option for certain inner ear conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss, vertigo, or tinnitus, consult with an ENT specialist to determine if this procedure is right for you.