Brief Answer:
It's untrue... Perilymphatic fistula or Labyrinthi

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

It's untrue... Perilymphatic fistula or Labyrinthine fistula is an opening of the inner ear into the middle ear. Fistula is not normally seen in the ear. It is noticed when there is an erosion of the outer bony covering of the labyrinth.

Under normal circumstances, the fluid-filled spaces (endolymphatic and perilymphatic) of the membranous labyrinth are encased in the dense bony capsule with only two places of increased compliance: the oval window and the round window. Disruption of the labyrinthine bone can lead to areas of increased compliance, with symptoms and signs that can be understood based upon abnormal pressure transmission in the system.

Communication between the endolymphatic and perilymphatic spaces of the labyrinth or passage of perilymph from the labyrinth into the middle ear or mastoid can lead to hearing loss and/or vestibular disturbances.

High resolution CT scan of temporal bone can identify the erosion in the bone. Whereas Contrast-enhanced MR imaging may demonstrate selective enhancement of different turns of the cochlea, thus indicating cochlear inflammation secondary to a perilymphatic fistula.

Hope this answers your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.

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Brief Answer:
I would not prefer a grommet...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

Opinions vary regarding the grommet insertion. I would not prefer a grommet in this situation; it becomes an easy acess for the bacteria to get into the inner ear. MRI is worth the effort, as it will help in identifying the leak.

Salt restriction diet and reduction of physical stress may be beneficial in reducing the pressure inside the inner ear.

Wish you good health.

Regards

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