Clinical trial compares Two Methods for Eardrum Perforation Repair

Tympanic membrane perforation (TMP) is a condition that happens when the thin layer of tissue that separates the middle and outer ear is damaged. This can lead to problems like ear infections and hearing loss. Scientists conducted a clinical trial to see which method of repairing TMP is more effective. 

The tragus perichondrium–cartilage island (TPI) method: It involves using a small piece of cartilage and tissue from the patient's tragus (the small bump in front of the ear canal) to repair the damaged tissue in the ear. This method works well because the tragus cartilage is flexible and can easily adapt to the shape of the ear canal. Using tissue from the perichondrium helps to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

The Temporalis Muscle Fascia (TMF) method: On the other hand, the TMF method involves using muscle tissue from the patient's temple to repair the damaged tissue in the ear. This method has been used for many years and is still used today because it is simple and easy to find.

Clinical Trial

The trial involved 84 patients who had TMP. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: one group received treatment with the TMF method, and the other group received treatment with the TPI method. The researchers compared the results of the two methods, including how much blood was lost during the surgery, how long the surgery took, how long patients stayed in the hospital, how successful the surgery was, and how much hearing improved after the surgery.

Results

The results of the study showed that the tragus perichondrium–cartilage island method was better than the temporalis muscle fascia method. This is because the TPI method had a shorter surgery time, a higher success rate, and better hearing improvement after the surgery. The study also found that the TPI method had a significantly lower air-conducted sound and air-bone gap compared to the TMF method.

The TPI method has a high success rate, and patients experience better hearing improvement after the surgery. However, it's important to remember that each patient is different, and the best method of TMP repair should be determined based on individual patient factors and the surgeon's expertise.

Conclusion

The tragus perichondrium–cartilage island method is a promising breakthrough over the temporalis muscle fascial method, including shorter operation times, higher success rates, and better hearing improvement after the surgery. This trial's findings could potentially have a significant impact on the field of ear surgery, leading to better outcomes for patients with TMP.

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