Implementation of the hyaluronic acid fat graft myringoplasty technique, pitfalls and lessons learned

Abstract

Background: Myringoplasty is a common procedure in otorhinolaryngology. Many techniques with different complications and outcomes have been described, one of which is hyaluronic acid fat graft myringoplasty (HAFGM). This technique, as proposed by Saliba, uses fat tissue and hyaluronic acid discs. The technique is relatively fast with a high success rate and low complications. However, what outcomes can be expected when performed by other surgeons? In this paper, we report on the technique’s success in our own hands.Materials and methods: Based on Saliba’s protocol, we performed 86 HAFGMs by a transcanal approach between 2012 and August 2014. However, our 70% success rate was significantly different from Saliba’s 92% (p value 2.8e − 05). We visited Saliba’s clinic in order to identify critical differences between our approaches. We adapted the differences we found in our protocol and analysed another 50 HAFGMs performed afterwards, between October 2014 and December 2015.Results: The success rate increased to 86–89%, this percentage is not different compared to Saliba’s results (p value .25 and .54).Conclusion: HAFGM is a reproducible technique in the hands of other surgeons, but critical following of the surgical protocol is important.