Resonant frequency pattern in multifrequency tympanograms: Results in normally-hearing subjects

This paper presents experimental data on the evaluation of middle ear reson ances by multifrequency tympanometry. Multifrequency tympanograms (MFTs) of 18 normally-hearing subjects were recorded with a frequency resolution of 15 Hz. The fine structure found in the MFT patterns was compared with findi ngs in literature. A first approach for the evaluation of this fine structu re was made explaining the great variability of the main ossicular resonanc e frequencies described in previous publications. The consequence of the pr esent investigation is that the concept of the main ossicular resonance has to be revised critically.