An investigation of the microcirculation of the human tympanic membrane with laser-Doppler flowmetry.

The present investigation was performed to evaluate the use of laser-Doppler flowmetry as a means for measuring the blood flow of the microcirculation of the human tympanic membrane. The blood cell flux in the microvascular bed of the normal tympanic membrane was measured in healthy subjects. The laser-Doppler output signals continuously recorded showed a steady value ranging from 70 to about 120 V, as well as spontaneous oscillations (or rhythmical active vasomotion). Our findings show that the laser-Doppler instrument tested seems to be useful for evaluating blood flow changes in the microcirculation of the human tympanic membrane.