What is the treatment protocol for tympanic membrane perforation?

The treatment protocol for tympanic membrane perforation typically involves observation and surgical repair if necessary. Most tympanic membrane perforations heal spontaneously without the need for surgical intervention. In many cases, conservative management, which includes keeping the ear dry and monitoring the patient's symptoms, is sufficient.

Surgery is generally reserved for instances where there is persistent hearing loss, recurrent ear infections, or if the perforation does not heal on its own after a few weeks to months. Additionally, factors such as the size of the perforation and the overall health of the patient can influence the decision to pursue surgical repair.

While antibiotics can play a role in the management of accompanying infections, they do not directly treat the perforation itself. Suction and aural toilet might be utilized in certain situations to clear debris but are not standard treatments for the perforation specifically. Immediate surgery is rarely indicated unless there are complications or significant functional impairment, making observation the primary approach in most cases.