Our Summary

In 1998, Dr. Eavey introduced a new method for repairing holes in the eardrum (tympanic membrane) called the butterfly cartilage tympanoplasty. This technique uses a small piece of cartilage to patch the hole. Research since then has shown that this method is effective and takes less time than other repair methods. The purpose of this study was to look at past research on the success rate and results of this technique and compare it to a group of 23 children and 7 adults who had this surgery.

The research showed that the butterfly technique successfully closed the hole in the eardrum in 71% to 100% of cases. Most studies also showed improved hearing after the surgery. In our group, 21 out of 32 eardrums were fully repaired. The patients were followed up for an average of 13.4 months. The gap between the quietest sound they could hear and the normal level of sound (air-bone gap) decreased from 13.4 dB to 6.9 dB on average.

In conclusion, the butterfly cartilage technique is effective in repairing holes in the eardrum and improving hearing in both adults and children.

FAQs

  1. What is the butterfly cartilage tympanoplasty technique introduced by Dr. Eavey in 1998?
  2. How effective is the butterfly cartilage tympanoplasty method in repairing holes in the eardrum and improving hearing?
  3. What were the results of the study comparing past research on the butterfly technique to a group of 23 children and 7 adults who had the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing tympanoplasty to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the ear dry and avoiding activities that could put pressure on the ear. They may also advise the patient to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and hearing improvement. It is important to be patient with the recovery process and allow enough time for the eardrum to fully heal.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for tympanoplasty include those with:

  1. Chronic or recurring ear infections that have caused a perforation in the eardrum
  2. Conductive hearing loss due to a hole in the eardrum
  3. Trauma or injury to the eardrum
  4. Chronic ear drainage or fluid behind the eardrum
  5. Failed previous tympanoplasty surgeries
  6. Patients with cholesteatoma (a noncancerous growth in the middle ear)

Overall, tympanoplasty can help improve hearing, reduce the risk of infection, and restore the structure and function of the eardrum. It is important for patients to consult with an otolaryngologist to determine if they are a suitable candidate for this surgery.

Timeline

Before tympanoplasty, a patient may experience symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, ear infections, and drainage from the ear. They may also have a perforated eardrum, which can be caused by trauma, infection, or other factors.

After tympanoplasty, the patient will undergo surgery to repair the hole in the eardrum using the butterfly cartilage technique. Following the surgery, the patient will have a recovery period during which they may experience some discomfort, drainage from the ear, and temporary hearing loss. Over time, the eardrum will heal and hearing may improve. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the success of the surgery and any changes in hearing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about tympanoplasty include:

  1. What is the success rate of the butterfly cartilage tympanoplasty technique?
  2. How long does the surgery typically take?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after the surgery?
  4. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during the recovery process?
  5. What are the potential risks or complications associated with tympanoplasty?
  6. Will my hearing improve after the surgery?
  7. How long will it take for me to notice improvements in my hearing?
  8. Will I need to follow any special precautions or restrictions after the surgery?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?

Reference

Authors: Jumaily M, Franco J, Gallogly JA, Hentzelman JL, Costa DJ, Wild APK, Mikulec AA. Journal: Am J Otolaryngol. 2018 Jul-Aug;39(4):396-400. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2018.03.029. Epub 2018 Mar 29. PMID: 29628367