Build a Better Ear: What’s New in Chronic Ear Disease

Abstract

Program Description:

There is a growing interest in implementing surgical techniques and using novel materials for tympanic membrane perforation repair. Bioactive materials, cartilage and fascia grafts derived from the recipient patient, novel partial ossicular replacement prostheses and total ossicular replacement prostheses, and novel technologies (ie, otoendoscopy) are in continuous evolution, striving for higher quality and longer duration and stability in otologic surgery grafting. The presenters will provide descriptions and show videos demonstrating the function of these different materials and techniques. In addition, a non-committee panel will present an evidence-based medicine (EBM) algorithm for treatment:”What Literature says—an EBM decision Algorithm as Key to Success.”

Educational Objectives:

1) Describe the variety of grafting materials, protheses, and different techniques available for surgical repair of tympanic membrane perforations. 2) Discuss the advantages and limitations of using these technologies and materials. 3) Assess the validity of the studies presented to evaluate the efficacy of these surgical tools.