Evaluation of the anatomical and auditory outcomes of minimally invasive cartilage myringoplasty: Our technique and experience

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess closure rates in tympanic membrane perforations of various dimensions using the tragal cartilage-perichondrium composite graft and its effect on hearing values and also to present our own experiences. Materials and methodsSixty-one patients presenting to our clinic in 2014–2015 and diagnosed with tympanic membrane perforation were included in the study. Otomicroscopic and otoendoscopic examinations were performed preoperatively and at the 12th month postoperatively. Patients were divided into three groups depending on perforation diameter. Pure tone audiometry was performed at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000Hz (Hz) preoperatively and at the 12th month postoperatively, air-bone values were recorded, and air-bone gap (ABG) was calculated. Surgery was performed under local anesthesia usıng the transcanal, push-through (transperforation) technique. Perichondrium supported by thinned cartilage graft obtained from the tragal cartilage was used for tympanic membrane repair. ResultsGraft acceptance levels after 12months in small, medium, and large perforations were 100%, 93.5%, and 93.75%, respectively, and 95% on average. Preoperative air-bone gap values were 18.64±9.63 decibel (dB), 22.51±9.66dB, and 28.43±11.36dB, respectively, and 23.18±11.36dB on average, while 12th month postoperative air-bone gap values were 9.14±8.27dB, 11.25±6.73dB, and 17.37±9.22dB, respectively, and 12.37±8.28dB on average. The difference between pre- and postoperative 12th month air-bone gap values was statistically significant (p<0.005). ConclusionThe use of thinned cartilage-supported perichondrial grafts in patients with all sizes of tympanic membrane perforation is safe and effective in terms of both anatomical healing and restoration of hearing and can represent a first-choice technique that is easy to perform and involves minimal morbidity.