Cartilage Tympanoplasty: Graft Placement

Introduction: Cartilage tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at repairing the tympanic membrane using cartilage grafts. This technique is particularly effective in cases of chronic otitis media, recurrent perforations, where traditional methods may fail. The procedure not only aims to close the perforation but also to restore hearing and reconstruct a healthy middle ear cavity. This case report presents a patient undergoing cartilage tympanoplasty placement procedure, highlighting the surgical technique.

Procedure Presentation: The cartilage tympanoplasty procedure begins with harvesting tragal cartilage, carefully preserving an anterior remnant for cosmetic purposes. The graft is measured, harvested, and trimmed to fit the tympanic membrane defect, with the perichondrium preserved on one side. A central trough is carved for seating on the malleus handle. The tympanomeatal flap is elevated, allowing placement of the graft in the middle ear cavity medial to the tympanic membrane. Crushed gel foam supports the graft, and the tympanomeatal flap is draped over it. The surgeon carefully inspects to ensure proper placement and complete perforation coverage. Additional gel foam in the canal prevents graft lateralization, completing this precise and meticulous surgical technique.

Conclusion :  This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of cartilage tympanoplasty in treating chronic otitis media with tympanic membrane perforation. The use of cartilage grafts provides a robust and reliable method for tympanic membrane reconstruction, offering excellent anatomical and audiological outcomes. Further studies with larger patient cohorts are recommended to validate these findings and refine the surgical technique.