[Tympanic membrane perforation and tympanoplasty].

OBJECTIVES

To report anatomic and physiologic characteristics of the tympanic membrane, to discuss the etiology and pathogenesis of tympanic perforation, and to discuss its management.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

After a review of the literature, different surgical techniques and the postoperative results were evaluated.

RESULTS

The rate of tympanic membrane closure is greater than 90% for the majority of authors. Age, mucosa inflammation, pathological contralateral ear (perforation, otitis media, cholesteatoma), and surgical experience influence this result.

DISCUSSION: Even if surgical results are good, abstention must always be proposed and all complications must be explained.

CONCLUSION

Palisade cartilage tympanoplasty is an effective technique for both tympanic membrane closures.