Approaches to a Successful Myringoplasty – Which Factors Make a Myringoplasty Difficult?

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Myringoplasty has often been viewed as a “basic” ENT procedure. This paper will discuss the factors that can make a myringoplasty more challenging and suggest some techniques to overcome these. Affecting FactorsPatient factorsThe age of the patient, their habitus and co-existing co-morbidities are usually the factors affecting the choice and outcome of the procedure. The earAnatomical variations, the nature of the pathology itself and the condition of the remnant tympanic membrane and the middle ear are important factors for consideration. Other factorsEquipment availability, expertise of the surgical team and anaesthetic support can also influence the surgical procedure. Surgical ProcedureThe actual procedure can be done in a variety of ways including but not limited to different approaches, different techniques and using different equipment like microscopes, endoscopes, LASER, etc.Results and ComplicationsThe primary author reported a success rate of about 95% in her series. Complications of myringoplasty include myringitis, residual perforations, otitis externa and epithelial pearl formation.