What is traumatic tympanic membrane perforation and how does it affect hearing? Traumatic tympanic membrane perforation refers to a disruption of the integrity of the tympanic membrane (eardrum). The most common cause of this condition is the use of inappropriate objects to clean the external auditory canal, such as cotton swabs, which can damage the delicate eardrum. If left untreated, traumatic tympanic membrane perforation can lead to further complications, such as chronic ear infections or h