Estudio retrospectivo de 544 timpanoplastias con cartílago y pericondrio: resultados anatómicos y funcionales / A retrospective study of 544 tympanoplasty with cartilage and perichondrium: anatomical and functional results

Introducción: el cierre de las perforaciones timpánicas se realiza con diferentes materiales, entre ellos el cartílago y el pericondrio. En este estudio se compararon los resultados anatómicos y funcionales obtenidos con ambos materiales, y se evaluaron posibles factores asociados con los buenos resultados. Material y métodos: estudio retrospectivo en pacientes intervenidos de timpanoplastia sin mastoidectomía entre el 1 de enero de 2001 y el 31 de diciembre de 2018. Resultados: se incluyeron 544 timpanoplastias. En la mayoría se utilizó cartílago (78,5 %) y en el resto pericondrio. El cartílago se utilizó con mayor frecuencia en los menores de 18 años (p=0,001), perforaciones totales y subtotales (p=0,000) y timpanoplastias secundarias y terciarias (p=0,008). No hubo diferencias en el tiempo de seguimiento (15,68 ± 22,18 meses frente al 12,86 ± 14,9 meses, p=0,169). La tasa de éxito anatómico fue mayor en el grupo de cartílago, sin diferencias en los resultados auditivos (82 % con cartílago y 78,3 % con pericondrio). El éxito anatómico se relacionó con la técnica utilizada para la reconstrucción con cartílago, mientras que los resultados auditivos se asociaron significativamente con el estado de la mucosa del oído medio y la cadena de huesecillos en el momento de la cirugía y el éxito anatómico posquirúrgico. Conclusiones: con el cartílago se consiguieron mejores resultados anatómicos que con el pericondrio, sin diferencias a nivel funcional. Sin embargo, los resultados funcionales empeoraron si había patología a nivel del oído medio y en ausencia de restauración anatómica.

Introduction: Different materials are used to close tympanic perforations. This stu-dy aimed to compare anatomical results obtained with cartilage and perichondrium and evaluate factors associated with successful results. Material and method: Re-trospective study of patients who underwent tympanoplasty without mastoidectomy between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2018. Demographic data, ear pathology, surgical intervention, and anatomical and functional results were collected. Results:544 tympanoplasty were included. Cartilage was the most used (78.5%). Cartilage was used more frequently in children under 18 years (p = 0.001), to reconstruct total and subtotal perforations (p = 0.000) and in secondary and tertiary tympanoplasty (p = 0.008). Follow-up time did not differ between the two groups (15.68 ± 22.18 months vs. 12.86 ± 14.9 months, p = 0.169). The anatomical success rate was higher in the cartilage group, with no significant differences in hearing outcomes (82% with cartilage and 78.3% with perichondrium). Anatomical success was related to the technique used for cartilage reconstruction (monoblock or palisade). Hearing re-sults were significantly associated with the state of middle ear mucosa at the time of surgery, the state and mobility of the ossicle chain, and post-surgical anatomical suc-cess. Conclusions: Cartilage achieved better anatomical results than perichondrium. Both materials were comparable on a functional level. However, the functional re-sults worsen if there is pathology of the middle ear (mucosa or chain of ossicles) and anatomical restoration is not achieved.

Endoscopic or Microscopic Tympanoplasty Advantages and Disadvantages: A Theory Domain Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction Tympanoplasty is a reparative surgery that has multiple indications. The aid of a microscope or an endoscope is necessary to carry out the procedure. The classic method utilizes the microscope; however, in the recent decades, the endoscope has been popular. Although many articles try to compare these two techniques, there is still no robust evidence that confirms the superiority of either technique. In the present work, we seek to perform a systematic review contribute with this discussion. Objectives The present systematic review attempted to compare endoscopic and microscopic surgery techniques and to discover whether there would be superiority in the results of any of them, based on data currently available in the literature. Data Synthesis The objectives of the present review were organized according to the PICO planning and strategy adapted for systematic reviews. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were established aiming to select only select primary data. The main medical databases were searched usingan optimized search string with appropriate descriptors. The searched databases were MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, and EMBASE. A total of 99 studies were selected and 38 were fully assessed after the inclusion criteria were applied. All included articles were reviewed by all authors and their results were discussed and summarized. Conclusion The endoscopic technique was shown to be a safer technique comparable in effectiveness to the use of microscopy. In addition, it provides possible advantages such as shortening the surgical time and better postoperative pain outcomes.

Early Results of Type I Tympanoplasty in Underprivileged Nepalese Children and Factors Influencing the Surgical Outcomes

Abstract Introduction Type I Tympanoplasty is a common ear surgery performed in Nepalese children, but no studies have been published about the success rate of the procedure and the factors affecting surgical outcomes. Objectives To find out the surgical outcome of type I tympanoplasty and to evaluate the factors affecting the success of the surgery in Nepalese children. Methods This is a retrospective study conducted by analyzing the medical records of a five-year period. Children aged 8-16 years who underwent type I tympanoplasty were included in the study. Surgical pro-forma and records of pre and post-operative pure tone audiometry were documented. Outcome of the surgery was considered a success in terms of graft uptake and hearing improvement six months after surgery. Results Out of 629 children who underwent type I tympanoplasty, anatomical success was observed in 93.32% (n = 587) and functional success in 76% (n = 478). Factors such as age, site and size of the perforation, status of the middle ear and contralateral ear, surgical approach, and the graft used were not the predictors of the surgical outcome. Conclusions The surgical outcome of type I tympanoplasty in Nepalese children was good. Although surgical outcome was better with older children, post-aural approach, temporalis fascia, inferiorly positioned perforations, and in children with dry middle ear mucosa, none of the parameters considered in this study were found to be a significant predictive factor of the surgical outcome.

Evaluation of Recurrence and Hearing Outcome for Inactive Squamosal Disease after Cartilage Strengthening Tympanoplasty

Abstract Introduction Inactive squamosal disease is unique for having a conflicting treatment protocol, with an age-old debate between early surgical intervention or keeping patients in a long-term follow-up. The shifting paradigm is early intervention to prevent further progress into active disease and improve hearing outcome in its nascent stage. Objective To evaluate recurrence and hearing outcome in cases of inactive squamosal disease after cartilage strengthening tympanoplasty. Methods The study was conducted on 50 patients with inactive squamosal disease. Detailed examination was done to grade the retraction. All patients underwent autologous conchal cartilage tympanomastoidectomy with temporalis fascia grafting. Recurrence and hearing evaluations were done by pure tone audiogram at regular intervals for one year. Results Hearing loss was the most common presenting symptom. Isolated pars tensa retractions were more common (54%) than pars flaccida (12%), or those involving both (34%). Ossicular status was normal in only 14% of the cases, and the most common ossicular damage was to the lenticular process of the incus (52%). Three of the patients (6%) had residual perforation at the 3rd month of follow-up. Subjective improvement in hearing was reported by 42% patients. Hearing improvement greater than 10 dB was found in 24 patients (48%). Air-bone gap reduced from 25.16 ± 8.15 dB preoperatively to 12.90 ± 6.20 at 1 year of follow-up. Recurrence was seen in three patients (6%). Conclusion Early intervention by cartilage strengthening of weakened tympanic membrane and ossicular reconstruction not only offers better hearing results, but also prevents progress to active disease.

Comparative Study of Outcome of Tympanoplasty between Endoscopic and Microscopic Approach

Background: Tympanoplasty is a common operation performed by ENT specialist. It is a challenging event to treat with a microscope when the external canal is narrow or overhang. The endoscopic permeatal approach gives the advantage of wide angle view and can avoid post-auricular approach and canaloplasty. The aim of the study was to compare the outcome of tympanoplasty in post-auricular microscopic and permeatal endoscopic approach.Material &Methods:A total of 100 patients between the age group 15 to 44 years who were attending the ENT OPD, suffering from Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) were selected on the basis of perforation type and their workup was done to assess the candidature for tympanoplasty. Comparative analysis between the two groups were done based on analysis using SPSS 24 software version. The level of significance was set to 5% (P<0.05).Results:A total of 100 patients were included in the study the overall graft take was 92.3% in cases of Endoscopic permeatal technique as compared to 88.88% in the case of Microscopic postaural underlay technique, with a majority of the failures in the large central perforation group rendering a p = 0.021 for patients operated for Large perforations, p=0.036 or moderate perforations and p = 0.0476 for small perforations. There was a difference in hearing improvement with majority of the cases improving to the range of 10-21 dB in permeatal endoscopic technique compared to 07-18 dB in postauralMicroscopic technique.Conclusion:In terms of graft take rate, hearing improvement and complications, the permeatal endoscopic method outperforms the postauricular microscopic approach.

The Role of Cartilage-perichondrium Tympanoplasty in the Treatment of Tympanic Membrane Retractions: Systematic Review of the Literature

Abstract Introduction Tympanic retraction is a condition characterized by the displacement of the tympanic membrane toward the structures of the middle ear. Clinically, tympanic retractions can lead to hearing loss, ear discharge and/or ear pain. In most of the cases, however, tympanic retractions are asymptomatic and are found accidentally during an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) examination. This condition has created numerous debates regarding the optimal choice of treatment, especially in the asymptomatic forms. The main controversy is regarding the relationship between retraction and the development of cholesteatoma, which would justify a surgical intervention performed for preventive purposes. Objectives To study the effectiveness of cartilage tympanoplasty in the management of tympanic membrane retractions by analyzing the results of the studies conducted on the use of cartilage as a reconstruction material. Data Synthesis A literature review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses group (PRISMA). Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers. Our initial literature search yielded 2,258 references. Applying the PRISMA flow chart, 1,415 duplicates were excluded, and the remaining 843 abstracts were examined. Afterwards, 794 articles were excluded based on the research protocol criteria. Only 8 papers were included in the review by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Conclusions Despite the limitations of the studies taken into consideration, we can conclude that cartilage tympanoplasty may successfully rehabilitate the atelectatic ear especially in the more advanced stages of retraction, unlike the conservative strategies.

Titanium prostheses versus stapes columella type 3 tympanoplasty: a comparative prospective study / Timpanoplastia tipo III com próteses de titânio versus columela do estribo: um estudo prospectivo comparativo

Abstract Introduction: Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reconstruct the mechanisms of sound transmission in the middle ear. Objective: Analyze, from an audiological point of view, patients with chronic otitis media undergoing type 3 tympanoplasty major columella with total ossicular replacement titanium prosthesis or with cartilage graft stapes columella. Methods: This is a prospective analytical study, carried out at the otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic in a tertiary care hospital, through the evaluation of 26 patients with chronic otitis media who underwent tympanoplasty using different materials for auditory rehabilitation such as titanium prostheses or cartilage autografts. Results: There was no statistically significant association between the group factors (cartilage or titanium reconstruction) and preoperative variables. There was no statistically significant association between the postoperative characteristics of the patients and the type of reconstruction. Neither subjective improvement (hearing improvement) nor residual perforation were associated with a type of material. The via factor was the only one that showed a statistically significant difference once air-conduction pathway improved more than bone-conduction pathway, decreasing the air-bone gap. Conclusion: There was no statistical difference between the two groups in relation to the audiometric improvement. There was hearing improvement in both groups. More studies must be done with a longer follow-up to better evaluate the outcome.

Resumo Introdução: A timpanoplastia é um procedimento cirúrgico que visa reconstruir os mecanismos de transmissão do som na orelha média. Objetivo: Analisar, do ponto de vista audiológico, pacientes com otite média crônica submetidos à timpanoplastia tipo 3 com columela maior, com prótese de reconstituição ossicular total de titânio, ou com columela de estribo com enxerto de cartilagem. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo analítico, feito no ambulatório de otorrinolaringologia de um hospital terciário, por meio da avaliação de 26 pacientes com otite média crônica submetidos à timpanoplastia com diferentes materiais para reabilitação auditiva, como próteses de titânio ou autoenxertos de cartilagem. Resultados: Não houve associação estatisticamente significante entre os fatores de grupo (reconstrução com cartilagem ou titânio) e variáveis pré-operatórias. Não houve associação estatisticamente significante entre as características pós-operatórias dos pacientes e o tipo de reconstrução; nem melhoria subjetiva (melhoria auditiva) ou perfuração residual foram associadas a um tipo de material. O fator via foi o único que demonstrou diferença estatisticamente significante, uma vez que a condução por via aérea apresentou maior melhoria do que a condução por via óssea, reduziu o gap aéreo-ósseo. Conclusão: Não houve diferença estatística entre os dois grupos em relação à melhoria audiométrica. Houve melhoria auditiva em ambos os grupos. Mais estudos com seguimento mais longo devem ser feitos para uma melhor avaliação da evolução.

Vías de ventilación y retracción epitimpánica en otitis media crónica no colesteatomatosa

Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos endoscópicos de las vías de ventilación encontrados durante la timpanoplastías tipo I en pacientes con OMC (Otitis media crónica) no colesteatomatosa. Materiales y métodos: Investigación transversal descriptiva, evaluamos 32 pacientes con OMC no colesteatomatosa con y sin retracción epitimpánica (RE) (Grado I-III, según clasificación de Mirko Tos), con antecedente de timpanoplastía tipo I (junio, 2018 - enero, 2020) en el servicio de otorrinolaringología del Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza. Se excluyeron pacientes con cirugías previas de oído medio, con OMC colesteatomatosa, con RE grado IV y actos quirúrgicos no almacenados digitalmente. Resultados: El 71,8% de pacientes presentaron RE (Grado I 3,0%, grado II 30,0% y grado III 56,5%), todos presentaron istmo timpánico (IT) bloqueado. El 68,8% de participantes con RE, presentaron tensor fold (TF) completo. Se observó una relación significativa entre TF completo e IT bloqueado con RE (p=0,026 y 0,003 respectivamente). Conclusiones: Los hallazgos más frecuentes fueron el TF completo e IT bloqueado, estos tuvieron asociación significativa con la presencia de RE en pacientes con OMC no colesteatomatosa.

Objective: To describe the endoscopic findings of the ventilation pathways found during type I tympanoplasty in patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM (chronic otitis media). Materials and methods : Cross-sectional descriptive study, we evaluated 32 patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM with and without epitympanic retraction (ER) (Grade I-III, according to Mirko Tos classification), with a history of type I tympanoplasty (June, 2018 - January, 2020) in the otorhinolaryngology service of the Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital. Patients with previous middle ear surgeries, with cholesteatomatous COM, with ER grade IV and surgical acts not digitally stored were excluded. Results: 71.8% of patients presented ER (Grade I 3.0%, grade II 30.0% and grade III 56.5%), all presented blocked tympanic isthmus (TI). 68.8% of participants with ER presented complete tensor fold (TF). A significant relationship was observed between complete TF and blocked IT with ER (p=0.026 and 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: The most frequent findings were complete TF and blocked IT, these had a significant association with the presence of ER in patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM.

Use of nasal mucosa graft in tympanoplasty / Uso do enxerto de mucosa nasal na timpanoplastia

Abstract Introduction Tympanoplasty techniques with different types of graft have been used to close tympanic perforations since the 19th century. Tragal cartilage and temporalis fascia are the most frequently used types of graft. They lead to similar functional and morphological results in most cases. Although little published evidence is present, nasal mucosa has also been shown to be a good alternative graft. Objective Surgical and audiological outcomes at the six-month follow-up in type I tympanoplasty using nasal mucosa and temporalis fascia grafts were analyzed. Methods A total of 40 candidates for type I tympanoplasty were randomly selected and divided into the nasal mucosa and temporalis fascia graft groups with 20 in each group. The assessed parameters included surgical success; the rate of complete closure of tympanic perforation and hearing results; the difference between post- and pre-operative mean quadritonal airway-bone gap, six months after surgery. Results Complete closure of the tympanic perforation was achieved in 17 of 20 patients in both groups. The mean quadritonal airway-bone gap closures were11.9 and 11.1 dB for the nasal mucosa and temporalis fascia groups, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups. Conclusion The nasal mucosa graft can be considered similar to the temporal fascia when considering the surgical success rate of graft acceptance and ultimate audiological gain.

Resumo Introdução Técnicas de timpanoplastia com diferentes tipos de enxerto têm sido usadas para fechar perfurações timpânicas desde o século XIX. A cartilagem tragal e a fáscia temporal são os tipos de enxerto mais usados, com resultados funcionais e morfológicos semelhantes na maioria dos casos. Embora ainda com poucas evidências publicadas, a mucosa nasal tem se mostrado uma boa opção de enxerto. Objetivo Comparar os resultados cirúrgicos e audiológicos da timpanoplastia tipo I com enxerto de mucosa nasal e de fáscia temporal em seis meses de seguimento. Método Foram selecionados aleatoriamente 40 pacientes candidatos a timpanoplastia tipo I divididos nos grupos enxerto de mucosa nasal e de fáscia temporal com 20 em cada grupo. Os parâmetros avaliados incluíram sucesso cirúrgico, ou seja, a taxa de fechamento completo da perfuração timpânica, e resultados audiológicos; diferença entre o gap quadritonal médio do gap aéreo-ósseo pré e pós-operatório após seis meses da cirurgia. Resultados O fechamento completo da perfuração timpânica foi alcançado em 17 de 20 pacientes no grupo mucosa nasal, como também no grupo fáscia temporal. O ganho quadritonal médio do gap aéreo-ósseo foi de 11,9 dB no grupo mucosa nasal e 11,1 dB no grupo fáscia temporal, respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos. Conclusão O enxerto de mucosa nasal pode ser considerado semelhante ao da fáscia temporal quando se considera o sucesso cirúrgico de pega do enxerto e o ganho audiológico.

Comparative Study of Outcome of Tympanoplasty by Postauricular and Permeatal Approach

Background: As from time of residency, tympanoplasty is the most common operation performed by an otolaryngologist. Because of the continuing efforts of otologists all around the world to produce the maximum surgical outcome, significant improvements in this surgical method have developed during the middle ages. Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the outcome of Tympanoplasty in Postauricular and Permeatal Approach.Methods:A total of 74 patients between the age group 15 to 44 years who were attending the ENT OPD, suffering from Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) were selected on the basis of type of perforation and their workup was done to assess the candidature for tympanoplasty. Comparative analysis between the two groups were done based on analysis using SPSS 24 software version. The level of significance was set to 5% (p < 0.05).Results:A total of 74 patients were included in the study and the overall graft take was 76.92% in cases of Permeatal technique as compared to 91.66% in the case of postaural underlay technique. The complication of postaural approach higher than Permeatal approach. There was a difference in hearing improvement with majority of the cases improving to the range of 10-22 dB in Permeatal technique compared to 08-18 dB in Postaural Underlay technique.Conclusion:In terms of complications and hearing improvement, the Permeatal method outperforms the Postauricular Approach, however the graft takes a higher percentage in the Postauricular Approach than the Permeatal Approach.

A Comparative Study Of Endoscopic And Microscopic Type-1 Tympanoplasty

Background:Chronicsuppurative otitis media tubotympanic type is a common pathology for which tympanoplasty is done. The decision to decide the approach for tympanoplasty de pends upon multiple factors like extent of disease, site and size of perforation, size of external auditory canal and surgeon’s own expertise and preference. This study was undertaken to compare endoscopic and microscopic approach for type-1 tympanoplasty.Material And Methods:This study data was collected from 50 patients who underwent tympanoplasty in our department in our hospital from July –2017 to November 2019.Patients above 15 years of age with inactive chronic otitis media tubotympanic type operated for type-1 tympanoplasty. Pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative data collected as per performa and evaluated.Result:Equal (25) number of cases underwent microscopic and endoscopic type-1 tympanolasty. As far as graft taken up is concern both approaches have good and comparable result. Hearing gain is almost similar in both approaches -Endoscopic approach-10.80 dB; microscopic approach-11.23 dB.Both methods do not have any major complications. Endoscopic approach has advantage of depth and angled vision. Endoscopic approach (57.2 min.) also saves surgical time than microscopic approach (89.4 min.) and comparatively good cosmetic result. Microscopic approach has upper hand over endoscopic appr oach in having two hande d surgery with magnified surgical view. Patient compliance and satisfaction is more with endoscopic approach.Conclusion:Both microscopic and endoscopic methods are excellent for type-1 tympanoplasty with advantage and limitation of each method. A careful selection of patient is necessary for endoscopic approach.

Timpanoplastías en el Hospital San Vicente de Arauco: Revisión de 3 años / Tympanoplasties in San Vicente de Arauco Hospital: 3 years review

Resumen Introducción: La timpanoplastía es el tratamiento de elección en la otitis media crónica simple. En Chile se han realizado diversos estudios para evaluar el éxito de la timpanoplastía. En nuestro centro evaluamos el resultado anatómico y funcional, correlacionando los resultados con la demografía de nuestra población. Objetivo: Realizar una descripción epidemiológica de los pacientes con diagnóstico de otitis media crónica simple, sometidos a timpanoplastía en el Hospital San Vicente de Arauco entre los años 2017 y 2019. Material y Método: Estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo. Se revisaron las fichas clínicas de pacientes con cirugía realizada entre enero de 2017 y noviembre de 2019. Este estudio cuenta con la aprobación del comité de ética del servicio de salud Arauco. Resultados: Se realizaron 77 timpanoplastías. 56 oídos cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. 71,43% fueron de sexo femenino. El rango de edad es de 8 a 64 años. 92,86% corresponde a timpanoplastía tipo I. Se utilizó un abordaje endoauricular en el 58,93%. El injerto utilizado fue predominantemente compuesto (cartílago-pericondrio) en un 75%. Se usó una técnica medial en un 94,94%. Se obtuvo un éxito anatómico 85,71% de los pacientes. Se obtuvo una ganancia sobre 10 dB en un 60,71% de los pacientes. Conclusión: No se encontraron diferencias significativas importantes que relacionan las elecciones quirúrgicas con los resultados anatómicos y auditivos del procedimiento a mediano plazo.

Abstract Introduction: Tympanoplasty is the treatment of choice for chronic otitis media. In Chile, several studies have been carried out to evaluate the success of tympanoplasty. Here, we assesed the anatomical and functional outcomes, correlating the results with the demographics of our population. Aim: To carry out an epidemiological description of patients with a diagnosis of chronic otitis media who underwent tympanoplasty at our hospital between 2017 and 2019. Material and Method: Retrospective, descriptive study. We reviewed clinical records of patients who underwent surgery between January 2017 and November 2019. This study has been approved by the ethics committee of Arauco health service. Results: 77 tympanoplasties were performed, of which 56 ears met the inclusion criteria. 71.43% were female. The age range is 8 to 64 years. 41% had chronic pathologies. 51.79% were left ear surgeries. 92.86% were type I tympanoplasty. An endoauricular approach was performed in 58.93%. A cartilage - perichondrium composite graft was used in 75% of the surgeries. A medial technique was performed in 94.94%. Anatomical success was achieved in 85.71% of patients. An average gain over 10 dB was obtained in 60.71% of the patients. Conclusion: There were no significant differences regarding the surgical choices with the anatomical and auditory results.

Endoscopic tympanoplasty with inlay cartilage graft in an university hospital / Timpanoplastia endoscópica com enxerto de cartilagem inlay em hospital universitário

Abstract Introduction Tympanoplasty is the surgical procedure aimed at the reconstruction of the tympanic membrane and restoration of the sound conducting mechanism. It can be performed with several types of access and grafts and is considered successful when it achieves complete closure of the tympanic perforation and sound conduction improvement. Objective To describe the prevalence of successful closure of tympanic perforations and auditory results of endoscopic tympanoplasty with an inlay tragus cartilage graft. Methods Retrospective study developed at a tertiary referral hospital. Patients with central tympanic perforations and intact ossicular chains operated with endoscopic tympanoplasty with inlay tragus cartilage graft were included. The neo-tympanum integrity index was evaluated, and the preoperative and postoperative auditory parameters were compared using the paired Student's t-test. Results We identified 83 endoscopic tympanoplasties with inlay cartilage, of which 63 (76 %) had an intact neo-tympanum and 20 (24 %) had residual perforations. The preoperative air-bone gap was, on average, 18 ± 8.9 dBHL, and the postoperative 11 ± 10 dBHL (p = 0.0005), showing reduction in 71 % and complete recovery in 27 %. The mean preoperative speech recognition threshold was 35 ± 13.5 and the postoperative SRT was 27 ± 14.4 (p = 0.0002). The preoperative tritonal mean was 34 ± 14.3 and the postoperative was 24 ± 15 (p = 0.0002). Conclusion In this series, endoscopic tympanoplasties with inlay tragus cartilage graft showed a 76 % prevalence of complete closure of the tympanic perforation, with significant improvement in the auditory parameters.

Resumo Introdução Timpanoplastia é o procedimento cirúrgico voltado para a reconstrução da membrana timpânica e restauração do mecanismo condutor do som. Pode ser executada através de diversos tipos de acesso e de enxertos e é considerada bem-sucedida quando obtém fechamento completo da perfuração timpânica e melhoria na condução sonora. Objetivo Descrever a prevalência de sucesso no fechamento completo das perfurações timpânicas e os resultados auditivos das timpanoplastias endoscópicas com enxerto de cartilagem de tragus inlay. Metodologia Estudo retrospectivo desenvolvido em hospital terciário de referência. Pacientes com perfurações timpânicas centrais e com cadeias ossiculares íntegras submetidos a timpanoplastias endoscópicas com enxerto de cartilagem de tragus inlay foram incluídos. Foram avaliados o índice de integridade do neotímpano e os parâmetros auditivos pré e pós-operatórios foram comparados com o teste t de Student pareado. Resultados Foram identificadas 83 timpanoplastias endoscópicas com cartilagem inlay, 63 (76%) obtiveram neotímpano íntegro e 20 (24%), perfurações residuais. O gap aéreo-ósseo pré-operatório foi, em média, 18 ± 8,9 dBNA e o pós-operatório 11 ± 10 dBNA (p = 0,0005), sofreu redução em 71% e recuperação completa em 27%. O SRT pré-operatório médio foi 35 ± 13,5 e o pós-operatório 27 ± 14,4 (p = 0,0002). A média tritonal pré-operatória foi 34 ± 14,3 e a pós-operatória 24 ± 15 (p = 0,0002). Conclusão Nesta casuística, as timpanoplastias endoscópicas com cartilagem de tragus inlay apresentaram fechamento completo da perfuração timpânica em 76% dos casos, com melhoria significativa dos parâmetros auditivos.

Rates of success in hearing and grafting in the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique / Taxas de sucesso na audição e em timpanoplastias com a técnica de enxerto de cartilagem em ilha e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio

Abstract Introduction Various graft materials have been used in the tympanoplasty technique. Cartilage grafts are being used increasingly in recent years. Objective The aim of this study was to present the comparative outcomes of the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique previously defined by ourselves. Methods We retrospectively compared the hearing and graft success rates in 108 patients with chronic otitis media, who had undergone cartilage tympanoplasty, where both island and perichondrium-preserved palisade graft techniques were used. Results The success rates among the study and the control groups with regard to graft take were 97% and 93%, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the groups with regard to the postoperative mean pure tone values, improvement in air-bone gaps and reduction in air-bone gaps to under 20 dB. However, better results were observed in the study group. Conclusion The perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique is an easy method with high graft success rates and hearing outcomes.

Resumo Introdução Vários materiais de enxerto têm sido usados na realização de timpanoplastias. Nos últimos anos, os enxertos de cartilagem têm sido cada vez mais usados. Objetivo Apresentar os resultados comparativos da técnica de enxerto de cartilagem em ilha associada e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio previamente descrita pelos autores. Método Foram comparadas retrospectivamente as taxas de sucesso auditivo e na "pega" do enxerto em 108 pacientes com otite média crônica, submetidos a timpanoplastia com cartilagem, na qual foram usadas ambas as técnicas, de enxerto em ilha e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio. Resultados As taxas de sucesso entre os grupos de estudo e controle em relação à "pega" do enxerto foram de 97% e 93%, respectivamente. Não foi observada diferença significante entre os grupos em relação aos valores médios dos tons puros, melhoria do gap ou redução do aéreo-ósseo para menos de 20 dB no pós-operatório. No entanto, melhores resultados foram observados no grupo de estudo. Conclusão A técnica de enxerto em ilha associada e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio é um métodofácil, com altas taxas de sucesso tanto do enxerto quanto dos resultados auditivos.

Effect of a boomerang-shaped Conchal cartilage graft for Type three Tympanoplasty on Hearing

Abstract Introduction Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease (CSOM-AAD) is often associated with ossicular erosion resulting in significant hearing loss. Absence of the stapes suprastructure is a poor prognostic indicator of hearing outcome, which necessitates an effective reconstruction technique for ossicular continuity and restoration of middle ear volume. In the present study, we used a boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft. Objective To evaluate the improvement in hearing using a boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft for Type III tympanoplasty in cases of CSOM-AAD in which the stapes suprastructure was absent and to study the incidence of intraoperative/postoperative complications of this procedure. Method A total of 21 patients with CSOM-AAD who were found to have absent stapes suprastructure intraoperatively were included. A boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft was placed over the stapes footplate for reconstruction following canal wall down mastoidectomy. Pure tone audiogram (500, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 Hz) was done preoperatively and at 12 weeks postoperatively. Hearing outcome and incidence of complications were noted. Results There was a statistically significant reduction in the hearing loss for air conduction and air-bone gap (ABG) of 6.1 dB and 6.9 dB respectively (p < 0.05). Air-bone gap < 30 dB could be achieved in 71.4% of the patients as compared with 23.8% preoperatively. No significant difference was noted in the bone conduction threshold (p > 0.05). A better hearing outcome was observed at higher frequencies (2,000, 4,000 Hz). No major complications were encountered. Conclusion A boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft is effective when used for Type III tympanoplasty, especially at higher (2,000, 4,000 Hz) frequencies, and is comparable to newer materials such as titanium total ossicular reconstruction prosthesis (TORP). No major intraoperative/postoperative complications were noted.

Audiological Outcome in Myringoplasties with an Intact Ossicular Chain: Is there a Difference between Chronic Otitis with or without Cholesteatoma?

Abstract Introduction Chronic otitis media (COM) with a central perforation or a concomitant cholesteatoma are both inflammatory lesions, however, with different etiologies. Both entities may present with an intact chain, and the final reconstruction is quite similar. Does it also apply for the hearing outcome? Objectives In a retrospective analysis, we investigated the preoperative hearing and the final hearing outcome of two groups of patients: those with COM and those with cholesteatoma, and compared various factors. Methods Patients operated between 2010 and 2019 were entered prospectively into a research database, and the integrity of the ossicular chain, the extent of the cholesteatoma, and the findings on computed tomography (CT) scans were retrospectively analyzed and correlated to the final hearing outcome. Results Out of 210 tympanoplasties for COM, 162 (80%) presented with an intact chain, and 85 (40%) ears could be analyzed. Out of 283 cholesteatoma surgeries, 53 (19%) ears presented with an intact chain. The preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) was worse in the COM group, but the postoperative ABG over the frequencies of 0.5 kHz and 4 kHz was the same (10 dB to 12 dB) in both groups, and remained within 20 dB in 90% (40 and 78 patients, respectively). The extension of the disease was rather limited in the cholesteatoma group (stages Ch1a and 1b), and better pneumatization and ventilation were beneficial for a good result. Postoperatively, the frequency of 4 kHz had the largest ABG (14 dB and 18 dB). Conclusion Overall, 80% of the patients with COM and less than 20% of those with cholesteatoma had an intact and mobile chain at surgery. Using equivalent surgical techniques for the tympanoplasty, the final outcome was almost the same for both groups, with a mean ABG of 10 dB to 12 dB.

Surgical Management of Retraction Pockets: Does Mastoidectomy have a Role?

Abstract Introduction Retraction pocket is a condition in which the eardrum lies deeper within the middle ear. Its management has no consensus in literature. Objective To assess the role of mastoidectomy in the management of retraction pockets added to a tympanoplasty. Methods Prospective study of patients with retraction pocket and referred to surgery. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups: one managed with tympanoplasty and mastoidectomy and the other group with tympanoplasty only. The minimum follow-up considered was 12 months. The outcomes were: integrity of eardrum, recurrence, and hearing status. Results This study included 43 patients. In 24 cases retraction occurred in the posterior half of the eardrum, and in 19 patients there was clinical evidence of ossicular interruption. The two groups of treatment were composed by: 21 patients that underwent tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy and 22 patients had only tympanoplasty. One case of the first group had a recurrence. In 32 cases patients follow up was longer than 48 months. The average air-bone gap changed from 22.1 dB to 5 dB. The percentage of air-bone gap improvement was assessed at 60 % in those patients treated with mastoidectomy, and 64.3 % in those without it (p > 0.5). Conclusion Tympanoplasty and ossiculoplasty should be considered to treat atelectatic middle ear and ossicular chain interruption. Mastoidectomy as a way to increase air volume in the ear seems to be a paradox; it does not add favorable prognostic factor to management of retraction pockets.

Endoscopic type I tympanoplasty in 70 patients with chronic otitis media: A preliminary report

Objective@#To evaluate the preliminary surgical results of Endoscopic Type I Tympanoplasty among patients with inactive chronic otitis media without ossicular pathology. @*Methods@#Design: Prospective Series. Setting: Tertiary Government Hospital. @*Participants@#Seventy patients with inactive mucosal chronic otitis media (COM) with air bone gap (ABG) of ≤ 40 dB on the preoperative audiogram scheduled to undergo Type I Tympanoplasty between July 2018 and December 2020 were enrolled. @*Results@#Seventy-three (73) ears were evaluated. The overall rate of graft uptake was 95.9% at 12 weeks. There was a statistically significant (p<.001) improvement in hearing on comparison of pre-operative (25.74 ± 7.34 dB) and post-operative (14.82 ± 6.55 dB) air bone gap. The duration of surgery was less than one hour in 76.7% and 77.2 % patients experienced only mild post[1]operative pain. @*Conclusion@#Endoscopic tympanoplasty can provide good results with respect to graft uptake and hearing gain with short surgical duration and minimum postoperative morbidity. Longer follow up of at least 6 months (for graft uptake) and preferably not less than 12 months (for hearing results) may confirm our preliminary findings.

A Three Point Assessment Protocol for Tympanoplasty Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract Introduction The surgical outcome of chronic otitis media (COM) of the mucosal type in the pediatric population with high rates of recurrent tympanic membrane perforation is indeed a concern for the attending surgeon. Objective The present study was done to evaluate the outcome of tympanoplasty in children with chronic otitis media mucosal type. Methods A retrospective analysis of the medical records of all children, aged < 16 years old, who underwent tympanoplasty for COM of the mucosal type was performed. These patients were addressed by a three-point assessment, for predicting outcome of tympanoplasty, which included the age of the patient, addressing the nasal/pharyngeal issues, and the status of the COM (discharging or dry). Surgical success was assessed in terms of graft uptake and improvement of hearing. Factors affecting the surgical outcome were also analyzed. Results A total of 90 children underwent type 1 tympanoplasty; 7 were lost to follow-up and 10 had incomplete audiometric results. In the 73 tympanoplasties analyzed, graft uptake was seen in 91.7% of the patients. Children with longer duration of ear discharge (> 8 years) had greater hearing loss. Children aged > 8 years old showed statistically significant higher chance of graft uptake (p = 0.021). Five of the six children who had graft rejection had bilateral disease. Conclusion A three-point assessment in the management of pediatric COM of the mucosal type offers good outcomes with post-tympanoplasty graft uptake rates > 90%.

Comparison of Levobupivacaine and Lidocaine for Post-Operative Analgesia Following Tympanoplasty

A pure s-enantiomer of bupivacaine known as levobupivacaine, is now considered a safer alternative for regional anaesthesia than a racemic solution, bupivacaine since it is as efficacious as bupivacaine, but with better pharmacokinetics. Levobupivacaine is clinically tolerated well in cases requiring regional anaesthesia with both bolus administration and post-operative infusion. There are very few incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR) if administration is monitored appropriately as most ADRs are due to mistakes causing systemic exposure of drug. Hypersensitivity reaction to drug or pharmacological effects of anaesthesia though rare can also cause ADRs.1 Lidocaine (Xylocaine), is available commonly in a 0.5 % or 1 % solution, though several more concentrations are available. It is the most commonly used infiltrative amide anaesthetic. Higher concentrations show no difference in pharmacodynamics but may increase the risk of toxicity.2 The duration of action may be increased by addition of epinephrine. It can be added in concentrations of 1:100,000 or 1:200,000. This is seen to increase the maximum dose of drug and also reduces blood loss.3 Recent studies have found this combination to be safe to use in nose, ears, fingers and toes. METHODSA randomized comparative study was carried out in a tertiary care teaching hospital, Karad. A total of 112 cases was enrolled in the study who were having chronic suppurative otitis media and who require surgical management by tympanoplasty. Cases with a previous history of ear surgery were excluded. The enrolled cases were classified into group I and group II alternatively and the group I cases were given levobupivacaine 0.5 % and group II were given lidocaine 2 %. Infiltration with local anaesthetic was given in post auricular region. Perioperative analgesics were not given. Post-operative pain was measured by using VAS score and comparison of both groups was done by the Mann Whitney U test. RESULTSLevobupivacaine (8.6 mL) and lidocaine (9.2 mL) used during tympanoplasty in cases were stable throughout the procedure and no post-operative complications were noticed. The mean time of analgesic requirement was 186.43 ± 91.04 minutes and 329.54 ± 135.82 minutes respectively in levobupivacaine group and lidocaine group. The mean quantity of analgesics used was 1.95 ± 1.01 tablets and 3.34 ± 1.10 tablets in the levobupivacaine and lidocaine groups respectively.