Chronic tympanic membrane perforation in an animal model

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to revalidate and reproduce a chronic tympanic membrane perforation animal model. Study designProspective, animal study. MethodsEight female chinchillas underwent bilateral thermal myringotomy. The edges of the perforation were folded inward using microflaps. The perforations were followed over time to monitor the course of closure. ResultsTwo animals were excluded from the study because of ear infection. None of the other tympanic membrane perforations remained open. The closing time varied from 4 to 6 weeks. ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate that the thermal myringotomy combined with infolding technique is not a reliable and consistent method to create a chronic tympanic membrane perforation. The closing time is shorter than expected and varies among the study subjects.There is a clear need for developing a reliable chronic tympanic membrane perforation model.