Approaches to a Successful Myringoplasty – Which Factors Make a Myringoplasty Difficult?

• Main Authors: Wendy Smith, Swagatam Banerjee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Association of Otolaryngologists of India, West Bengal 2021-06-01
• Series: Bengal Journal of Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery
• Subjects: myringoplasty; Otologic Surgical Procedures; Ear
• Online Access: https://bjohns.in/journal3/index.php/bjohns/article/view/462

Abstract Introduction Myringoplasty has often been viewed as a “basic” ENT procedure. This paper will discuss the factors that can make a myringoplasty more challenging and suggest some techniques to overcome these. Affecting Factors Patient factors The age of the patient, their habitus and co-existing co-morbidities are usually the factors affecting the choice and outcome of the procedure. The ear Anatomical variations, the nature of the pathology itself and the condition of the remnant tympanic membrane and the middle ear are important factors for consideration. Other factors Equipment availability, expertise of the surgical team and anaesthetic support can also influence the surgical procedure. Surgical Procedure The actual procedure can be done in a variety of ways including but not limited to different approaches, different techniques and using different equipment like microscopes, endoscopes, LASER, etc. Results and Complications The primary author reported a success rate of about 95% in her series. Complications of myringoplasty include myringitis, residual perforations, otitis externa and epithelial pearl formation.