The pars tensa is the large, taut, lower part of the eardrum, making up most of its area. It has a fibrous middle layer and is the part that vibrates most with sound.
| Location | Most of the tympanic membrane below the anterior and posterior malleolar folds |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Auriculotemporal nerve; Auricular branch of the vagus nerve; Tympanic plexus (glossopharyngeal nerve, inner surface) |
| Blood Supply | Deep auricular artery; Anterior tympanic artery; Stylomastoid artery |
Collects sound vibrations and transmits them to the malleus.
Most perforations from infection or injury occur here and many heal on their own. Fluid behind it in glue ear makes it dull and retracted. Grommets (ventilation tubes) are placed through the pars tensa.
A hole in the eardrum from infection, pressure change or trauma causing hearing loss and discharge.
Fluid behind an intact drum causing hearing loss, common in children.
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