[Comparison between tympanoplasties with cartilage-perichondrium composite graft and temporal fascia graft in terms of hearing levels and healing].

OBJECTIVES We compared the extent of healing and hearing improvement following tympanoplasties performed with the use of cartilage-perichondrium composite grafts and temporalis muscle fascia grafts. PATIENTS AND METHODS Fifty consecutive patients (22 males, 28 females; mean age 30+/-14 years; range 11 to 63 years) with chronic otitis media were divided into two groups to receive cartilage-perichondrium composite grafts or temporal muscle fascial grafts. All the patients were evaluated by pure-tone audiometry and otomicroscopic examination in the 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th months. RESULTS At the end of the first year, graft survival was 92% in the cartilage group, and 85% in the fascia group. Hearing levels improved at the end of the first year; however, the two groups did not differ significantly in terms of hearing improvement and graft survival. Hearing gains were greater in central and subtotal perforations. In comparison with a steady increase in the cartilage group, hearing levels remained unchanged after the sixth month in the fascia group. CONCLUSION Cartilage-perichondrium composite grafts may be easily and safely used in type I tympanoplasties, with successful results including hearing improvement.