Endoscope-assisted myringoplasty.

INTRODUCTION

To date, myringoplasty conducted under the operating microscope has been found to have its limitations. With the introduction of the endoscope into other branches of surgery, there have been attempts at its utilisation in otology.

METHODS

Endoscope-assisted myringoplasty was carried out in 50 patients aged 18-45 years using the temporalis fascia graft. The middle ear was examined through perforation in order to exclude cholesteatoma.

RESULTS

The overall success rate of the graft uptake and improvement in conductive deafness as air-bone gap closure was achieved in 80 percent of cases.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic myringoplasty was found to be equally effective, less morbid and very cost-effective in small central perforations. However, it is not applicable in all cases, especially in those with large perforations.