[Fluorescein angiography of the tympanic membrane--development of the method and normal findings].

Fluorescence angiography is a new method in the ENT-field, used for determining the vascularization of the tympanic membrane. It enables us to study the kinetics of the blood stream. Our studies on normal drum heads using fluorescein dye, whether applied intravenously or intraarterially, let us assume the external manubrial artery to be the largest and most constant blood supply of the membrane. Shortly afterwards, a network of vessels can be registered, differing according to each quadrant, but showing characteristic patterns, documented in our series of photographs. This technique of fluorescence angiography, successfully used in the diagnosis of vascular disorders of the eye fundus can be applied for scientific and clinical research in the ENT field, as well. Some modifications in that technique were done, using different illuminations and optics. Thus it can be practically applied not only to the tympanic membrane, but also to other areas in the field of ENT which can be visualized using microscopes or endoscopes.