Experimental Evaluation of Tympanoplasty Methods

Abstract

The use of paraffin wax and silicone-rubber (Silastic) sheeting has greatly assisted in achieving routine aeration of the middle ear and mastoid cavity. Our experimental findings, when these substances were implanted in the middle ear, appear to justify our clinical impression of their value. It has been hoped that the success rate in hearing restoration by ossicular transpositioning techniques might be improved by the use of a plastic glue (methyl methacrylate). Our experimental findings indicate that methyl methacrylate, because of its toxic effects on bone and the labyrinth, appears to be entirely unsuitable for clinical use.