Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study conducted on the use of the interlay technique in endoscopic ear surgery. The interlay technique is one way to repair holes in the eardrum, but it is not commonly used because it is difficult to remove the skin layer of the eardrum with only one hand. However, the skin layer can be removed more easily from the bottom part of the eardrum. The study suggests that surgeons should pay greater attention to the bottom front part of the eardrum because most holes and post-surgery holes are found there.

The research analyzed the medical records of 51 patients who had this type of surgery without any other procedures like ossiculoplasty (surgery to repair the small bones in the middle ear) between 2017 and 2020. This information was then compared with the records of 104 patients who had a different type of ear surgery using a microscope between 1998 and 2009.

The results showed that the holes were successfully closed in 98% of the patients who had the interlay technique, and they had good hearing after the procedure. The success rate for repairing the eardrum was not significantly different from the group that had the microscope surgery. However, the average hearing result was significantly better for the group that had the interlay technique.

In conclusion, the paper suggests that the interlay technique should be considered as a treatment for eardrum holes, and more research should be done on the outcomes after the surgery. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Jikei University in Tokyo, Japan.

FAQs

  1. What is the interlay technique in endoscopic ear surgery?
  2. What were the results of the study comparing the interlay technique and microscopic surgery in treating eardrum holes?
  3. What is the paper’s conclusion about the use of the interlay technique for eardrum hole repair?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tympanoplasty using the interlay technique is to be aware that this method can lead to successful closure of eardrum holes and improved hearing outcomes. Patients should discuss with their surgeon the advantages and potential risks of this technique before undergoing the procedure. It is also important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tympanoplasty are those who have a perforated eardrum (tympanic membrane) that is not healing on its own, leading to symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, hearing loss, and discomfort. Tympanoplasty may also be recommended for patients with chronic otitis media, traumatic perforations of the eardrum, or complications from previous ear surgeries.

In particular, the interlay technique discussed in the research paper may be recommended for patients with eardrum perforations located in the bottom front part of the eardrum, as this technique has shown good success rates in closing holes in this area and improving hearing outcomes. Patients who have not responded well to other conservative treatments for their eardrum perforation may also be good candidates for tympanoplasty with the interlay technique.

Timeline

Before Tympanoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, ear infections, and drainage from the ear
  • Patient undergoes a physical examination and hearing tests to diagnose the eardrum perforation
  • Patient may be prescribed antibiotics or ear drops to treat any infections
  • Patient may be advised to avoid getting water in the ear to prevent further complications
  • Surgery may be recommended if the eardrum does not heal on its own

After Tympanoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes tympanoplasty surgery to repair the eardrum perforation
  • Patient may experience mild pain and discomfort after the surgery
  • Patient is advised to avoid blowing their nose, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities to prevent complications
  • Patient may need to follow up with their surgeon for post-operative care and monitoring
  • Patient may experience improved hearing and relief from previous symptoms after the eardrum has healed
  • Patient may need to follow up with periodic hearing tests to monitor their hearing function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is tympanoplasty and how is it performed?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with tympanoplasty?
  3. How long is the recovery period after tympanoplasty?
  4. Will I experience any pain or discomfort after the surgery, and how can it be managed?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  6. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight after the surgery?
  7. What is the success rate of tympanoplasty in closing the eardrum hole?
  8. What is the expected outcome in terms of hearing improvement after the surgery?
  9. Are there any restrictions or precautions I should follow after the surgery?
  10. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and evaluation?

Reference

Authors: Takahashi M, Motegi M, Yamamoto K, Yamamoto Y, Kojima H. Journal: J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022 Nov 17;51(1):45. doi: 10.1186/s40463-022-00597-3. PMID: 36397175