Our Summary

This study compared two surgical techniques used to treat large holes in the eardrum: the inlay triple-C cartilage tympanoplasty and the conventional underlay cartilage island tympanoplasty. The study involved 183 patients who had these surgeries between March 2016 and June 2018. The results were similar for both groups. Both surgeries improved hearing and had a similar risk of the eardrum hole re-opening. However, the inlay triple-C tympanoplasty took significantly less time to perform. Therefore, the researchers concluded that the inlay triple-C tympanoplasty is a good surgical option for all eardrum perforations because it is just as effective and takes less time.

FAQs

  1. What are the two surgical techniques compared in the study for treating large holes in the eardrum?
  2. Were the results similar for the inlay triple-C cartilage tympanoplasty and the conventional underlay cartilage island tympanoplasty?
  3. Why did the researchers conclude that the inlay triple-C tympanoplasty is a good surgical option for all eardrum perforations?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tympanoplasty is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding activities that could put pressure on the ear and keeping the ear dry during the healing process. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and monitor any potential complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tympanoplasty are those with large holes in the eardrum (tympanic membrane perforations) that have not healed on their own and are causing symptoms such as hearing loss, recurring ear infections, or ear drainage. Tympanoplasty may also be recommended for patients with chronic middle ear infections or other conditions that have damaged the eardrum.

Timeline

Before tympanoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, ear drainage, and recurrent ear infections.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough examination by an ENT specialist to determine the extent of the eardrum perforation.
  3. Patient may undergo hearing tests and imaging studies to assess their hearing loss and evaluate the condition of the middle ear.

After tympanoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes tympanoplasty surgery to repair the eardrum perforation using either the inlay triple-C cartilage tympanoplasty or the conventional underlay cartilage island tympanoplasty technique.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any complications such as infection or bleeding.
  3. Patient may experience temporary hearing loss or ear discomfort following the surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their ENT specialist to monitor their healing progress and assess their hearing improvement.
  5. Patient may gradually resume normal activities and experience improved hearing and reduced symptoms of ear infections.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with tympanoplasty surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after tympanoplasty surgery?
  3. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during or after the surgery?
  4. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as work or exercise?
  5. Will I need to follow any special precautions or restrictions after the surgery?
  6. How likely is it that the eardrum hole will re-open after the surgery?
  7. What is the success rate of tympanoplasty surgery in improving hearing?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition?
  9. How experienced are you in performing tympanoplasty surgeries?
  10. How should I prepare for the surgery, both physically and mentally?

Reference

Authors: Cohen-Vaizer M, Barzilai R, Shinnawi S. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2021 Oct;278(10):3715-3722. doi: 10.1007/s00405-020-06439-0. Epub 2020 Oct 27. PMID: 33108564