Management for traumatic tympanic membrane perforation: a case series

Abstract

Tympanic membrane perforations may occur as the result of a pressure wave in the external ear canal or by direct penetration. About 50% are attributable to slap injuries or direct blows. Other reasons may be self-inflicted penetrating injuries account for about 25%. In the cases of traumatic perforation, patient suffers with pain and reversible conductive deafness, and may be complicated with tinnitus and vertigo. Large studies have shown that the mean time for spontaneous healing is about 1.5 months and the majority will have healed within 3 months. Appropriate and timely management shall be performed to reduce the incidence of permanent impairment. In Ayurveda, no direct reference is there for traumatic type of tympanic perforation. So, based on Nidana, it can be correlated with Agantuja Vrana (wound caused by eternal factor). In Agantuja Vrana (wound caused by eternal factor), many topical and Shamana Chikitsa (pacificatory treatment) have been mentioned. The aim and objective of the study were to evaluate the efficacy of Jatyadi Taila used for Karnapichu (a cotton roll soaked in medicated oil) along with the internal medication Panchatikta Ghrita Gugglu in the management of patients suffering from traumatic perforation. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of Ayurvedic management including local procedure and systemic medicine in traumatic perforation in the tympanic membrane. This study was done on four subjects of traumatic perforation, in whom Karnapichu (a cotton roll soaked in medicated oil) with Jatyadi Taila and internal medicine Panchatikta Ghrita Gugglu was given for 7 days. The use of these two drugs showed significant improvement in pain, and perforations were healed completely within 7 days. Hence, the use of Jatyadi Taila for Karnapichu (a cotton roll soaked in medicated oil) and Panchatikta Ghrita Gugglu internally helps in healing of traumatic perforation.