Abstract

Surgical reconstruction of the eardrum (tympanoplasty) frequently involves placement of a fascial graft underneath the eardrum, closing the defect, and packing of the middle ear and external ear canal with Gelfoam (an absorbable gelatin sponge) to support it. Occasional failure may be due to graft displacement due to bleeding, sudden head movements, or changes in middle ear pressure before the graft takes. Additional complications can result from infections or inflammatory reactions associated with the Gelfoam packing, resulting in reduced mobility of middle ear structures and decreased hearing.

© 1990 Optical Society of America