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Ординатура / Хирургия / Библиотека им академика М.И. Перельмана / Книга_4507_Библиотеки_им_академика_М_И_Перельмана.pdf
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462
I. Kaya et al.
Table 23.2 Graft materials
Temporal fascia Tragal cartilage Conchal cartilage Tragal or Conchal perichondrium Periosteum Subcutaneous tissue Fascia Lata External ear canal Fat tissue

23.8 Graft Techniques

23.8.1 The Perichondrium/Cartilage Island Graft
The perichondrium/cartilage island graft technique for tympanoplasty commences with harvesting a graft from the tragus [47, 50]. This location is favored because of the readily available at cartilage of sufcient size to reconstruct the entire TM.The harvested cartilage can be used as a split-thickness or full-thickness graft, typically exceeding 0.5 mm in most cases. While theoretical acoustic benets have been attributed to thinning the cartilage to 0.5mm [51], this is often negated by the unde­sirable tendency of the graft to curl when excessively thinned against the attached perichondrium. This curling phenomenon can compromise the stability and integra­tion of the graft into the middle ear, leading surgeons to generally prefer slightly thicker grafts for optimal surgical results.
The perichondrium/cartilage island graft, typically harvested from the tra­gus, is excellent for treating certain middle ear pathologies. Its inherent vascu­larity promotes graft survival and makes it ideal for managing atelectatic ears where the middle ear cavity has collapsed. Furthermore, its robust structure is well suited for high-risk perforations, providing superior stability and resistance to retraction.
Perichondrium/cartilage island graft harvesting begins with an initial incision at the medial tragus, sparing a 2-mm strip of cartilage in the dome for aesthetic con­siderations [50]. Sharp scissors meticulously dissect the cartilage from the overly­ing skin and soft tissue in a plane supercial to the perichondrium on both sides, preserving the attached perichondrium. To maximize the length of the harvest, the inferior cut should be made as low as possible.
Next, the superior portion near the incisura is released by grasping and retracting the cartilage inferiorly. Further careful dissection during retraction typically yields a piece of cartilage measuring 15mm×10mm in children and slightly larger in adults. The perichondrium on the side furthest from the ear canal is then removed, leaving the thinner perichondrium on the other side. This prepares the foundation for the actual perichondrium/cartilage island graft construction.
As previously described [50], a round knife meticulously removes cartilage to create an eccentrically located disc of approximately 7–9mm in diameter for com­plete TM reconstruction. A posterior perichondrial ap is fashioned for eventual
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draping over the posterior canal wall. A central vertical strip of cartilage measuring 2mm in width is then carefully removed to accommodate the entire malleus handle.
In situations with inadequate graft-TM remnant contact in the anterior TM region, a modied composite cartilage/perichondrium island graft model provides a promising solution. This model features a cartilage component that is truncated in the posterior half compared to the anterior half (Fig.23.1). The rationale behind this design is to optimize graft-TM contact in the critical anterior region by ensuring that the cartilage completely covers the space anterior to the malleus handle. This modi­ed island graft has two major advantages over the conventional model. First is its reduced posterior stiffness. The shorter posterior cartilage minimizes potential interference with ossicular motion and contact with the bony annulus, thereby reducing graft-related stiffness. The second advantage is the enhanced anterior con­tact. The extended anterior cartilage portion effectively bridges the gap anterior to the malleus handle, creating optimal contact with the remaining TM.
This novel approach addresses a critical challenge in tympanoplasty and may result in improved graft integration and functional outcomes. By removing a strip of cartilage and creating two distinct islands of cartilage, the graft can stretch and adapt to the conical shape of the natural eardrum. If the ossicular chain is intact, an additional triangle is removed from the back to accommodate the incus. This pre­vents the posterior part of the graft from shifting laterally, which can occur when the malleus and incus are close together and there is not enough space.
Inadequate removal of cartilage from the central strip has two potential compli­cations. First, insufcient cartilage excision can lead to the graft to fold medially instead of assuming the desired at conguration. Second, a narrow strip risks medial displacement of the entire graft relative to the malleus, altering its optimal position. To prevent these complications and ensure proper support, materials such as foam or platelet-rich brin (PRF) packing are carefully placed in the middle ear space beneath the anterior annulus. In addition, the posterior perichondrium ap is
Fig. 23.1 Modied asymmetrical composite cartilage/perichondrium island graft
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carefully draped over the posterior canal wall for further stabilization. Special care is taken to avoid packing the promontory or the vicinity of the ossicular chain, which may compromise its function.
23.8.2 The Palisade Graft
The palisade technique for tympanoplasty utilizes cartilage harvested from either the tragus or the cymba, depending on the surgical approach chosen. When a post­auricular incision is utilized, the cymba, located within the conchal bowl, is an eas­ily accessible source of suitable cartilage. Its thickness of approximately 1mm is similar to that of the tragus, which is an advantage over the thicker and more irregu­lar cartilage found in other concha regions. However, the inherent curvature of the cymba presents a challenge in constructing a perichondrium/cartilage island ap large enough for complete TM reconstruction. Therefore, in transcanal or endaural approaches where cartilage harvesting prioritizes minimal donor site morbidity, the tragus becomes the preferred option due to its readily accessible at cartilage suit­able for ap creation.
The palisade technique takes a unique approach to TM reconstruction. Instead of using a single large graft, it meticulously assembles the membrane from multiple thin cartilage slices. This modular approach accommodates the inherent curvature of the cymba cartilage, making it a viable alternative to the tragus when a postau­ricular incision provides optimal surgical access.
The palisade technique, utilizing either tragus or cymba cartilage, excels in sce­narios involving cholesteatoma and specic ossicular chain considerations. Its lay­ered, overlapping placement provides excellent coverage and promotes tissue integration, making it a preferred choice for cholesteatoma removal. In addition, this technique allows for simultaneous ossicular reconstruction if the malleus remains functional, further enhancing the potential for auditory rehabilitation.
Generous exposure is achieved by elevating the subcutaneous tissue and postau­ricular muscle from the conchal perichondrium to harvest cymba cartilage. The cymba itself is readily identied as the prominent bulge on the superior aspect of the concha. A circumferential incision meticulously sized to the anticipated graft dimensions is then made through both the perichondrium and cartilage, carefully preserving the anterior skin layer. The perichondrium is then carefully dissected from the postauricular side, leaving the harvested cartilage with its remaining ante­rior perichondrium intact. This harvesting technique offers a versatile source of car­tilage, not only for TM reconstruction but also for canal wall reconstruction in retrograde mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma surgery.
A modication of the palisade tympanoplasty technique was originally described by Heermann et al. [52]. Rather than juxtaposing rectangular strips of cartilage, their approach emphasizes the meticulous crafting of a single, large, semilunar piece of cartilage. This key element is strategically positioned directly against the malleus and atop the ossicular prosthesis, effectively reconstructing a signicant portion of the posterior TM and providing a stable foundation for subsequent
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cartilage placement. A second semilunar piece is then meticulously positioned between the initial graft and the canal wall to precisely reconstruct the scutum. Any remaining gaps between the reconstructed scutum and the canal wall or initial car­tilage piece are meticulously lled with slivers of cartilage to effectively prevent prosthesis extrusion and recurrent retraction. Finally, the meticulously harvested perichondrium is carefully draped over the posterior canal wall to complete the reconstruction.
This modied palisade approach offers versatility that extends its utility beyond stand-alone TM reconstruction. It has been shown to excel in scenarios requiring simultaneous ossiculoplasty with an intact malleus, particularly in the context of cholesteatoma surgery. Notably, this technique prioritizes placement of the ossicular prosthesis prior to cartilage reconstruction. This facilitates direct visualization and contact between the notched prosthesis and the malleus handle, a factor that has been shown to be associated with superior hearing out­comes [53].
The ossicular prosthesis serves a dual purpose in this modied palisade tech­nique. First, it acts as a stable scaffold upon which the meticulously crafted cartilage pieces are carefully positioned, facilitating precise reconstruction of the TM.This scaffold effectively reduces the risk of prosthesis extrusion, a potential complication in middle ear surgery. Second, the prosthesis allows for the meticulous creation of a watertight seal between the reconstructed TM and the canal wall, particularly in the crucial posterior area. This improved seal is particularly benecial in cholesteatoma surgery where recurrent disease is common. While this technique prioritizes recon­struction of the posterior TM with the prosthesis-cartilage composite, the anterior half is typically left intact or grafted with conventional materials. This preserves crucial access for cholesteatoma surveillance and allows for potential postoperative intubation if necessary.
23.8.3 The Temporalis Fascia Graft
The most commonly used graft material in tympanoplasty is the temporalis fascia. It is a thin, pliable sheet of tissue that is easily harvested from the temporalis muscle behind the ear. Temporalis fascia has several advantages over other graft materials, including ease of harvest, adequate thickness, and good malleability. Temporalis fascia can be harvested under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. This elimi­nates the need for general anesthesia, which can be associated with risks and com­plications. The temporalis fascia is typically 0.2–0.3 millimeters thick, which is sufcient to provide adequate support for the TM.Finally, the temporalis fascia molds easily to the defect in the TM.This helps ensure a good seal and prevents recurrent perforation.
There are some disadvantages of temporalis fascia as a graft material in tympa­noplasty. In some cases, harvesting temporalis fascia can cause pain, swelling, and bruising at the donor site. In addition, temporalis fascia can shrink over time, which can lead to recurrent perforation.
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23.8.4 Cubism Graft asaNovel Graft Technique
The growing popularity of endoscopic tympanoplasty has spurred the development of novel grafting techniques to overcome anatomic challenges and improve surgical outcomes. In the rst author’s clinic, we have implemented a unique approach to TM reconstruction that builds upon the established chondro-perichondrial island graft. This innovative technique, aptly named the “cubism graft,” incorporates car­tilage powder–enriched PRF onto the pre-harvested island graft [54]. This modica­tion offers several potential advantages: enhanced graft stability, improved healing potential, and tailored graft thickness, as discussed below.
The PRF, rich in growth factors and brin mesh, facilitates tissue adhesion and vascularization, potentially promoting faster graft integration and reducing graft dis­placement. The cartilage powder within the PRF matrix acts as a scaffold, providing additional structural support and potentially stimulating chondrogenic differentiation for enhanced TM regeneration. Finally, the malleable PRF–cartilage mixture allows the graft to be shaped to precisely match the desired thickness and contour of the TM, potentially improving sound transmission and functional outcomes.
The rst step in this technique is obtaining cartilage dust and forming the island graft: Using the ipsilateral tragal cartilage as the donor site, the perichondrium is meticulously dissected from the convex surface of the cartilage, preserving the peri­chondrium on the concave surface. With a size 11 scalpel blade held perpendicular to the cartilage, the perichondrium-free side is thinned using a controlled “brush­ing” technique. Gentle, rapid strokes are made without angular deviation, accumu­lating dough-like cartilage dust on the scalpel. This achieves the desired cartilage thickness while avoiding excessive bending and maintaining a at island graft mor­phology. The cartilage island is meticulously shaped using a piecemeal peripheral removal approach, incorporating a notch for the malleus handle. This part of the procedure is shown in Fig.23.2.
a
def
Fig. 23.2 Surgical technique of the cubism graft: (a) Holding the no. 11 surgical blade perpen- dicular to the cartilage. (b) Cumulation of cartilaginous dust while brushing the cartilage. (c) Accumulated dough-like cartilaginous dust. (d) Spreading the cartilaginous dust. (e) From left to right; a curled partial-thickness cartilage graft after slicing, a at partial-thickness cartilage island graft after dust harvesting, a thinner cartilage graft after dust harvesting, the cartilaginous dust. (f) Flat partial-thickness cartilage island graft
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a
c
Fig. 23.3 Surgical technique of the cubism graft: (a) Cutting the platelet-rich brin (PRF) into pieces. (b) Mixing the cartilaginous dust and PRF. (c) Crushing the cartilage dust-PRF mixture between two thick glass slides. (d) The thin, sticky cubism graft
b
d
Fig. 23.4 The cubism graft
The PRF is then prepared. Approximately 10mL of venous blood is collected in sterile, anticoagulant-free tubes and centrifuged at 3000rpm for 10min. The result­ing PRF, which forms a brin clot in the upper layer, is carefully extracted and mixed with the harvested cartilage dust. This mixture is thoroughly crushed between two thick glass slides, incorporating additional dust and PRF if necessary, to obtain a thin, cohesive “cubism graft” This part of the procedure is shown in Fig.23.3. The cubism graft is shown in Fig.23.4.
For graft placement and closure, the pre-shaped cartilage island graft is posi­tioned in an “over-underlay” fashion, lateral to the malleus handle and medial to the TM and annulus. The “cubism graft” is then meticulously placed over the island graft as a second layer (Fig.23.5).
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Fig. 23.5 Placement of the cubism graft over the cartilage island graft
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This innovative approach exemplies the ongoing advances in otologic surgery to optimize TM reconstruction and improve patient hearing.

23.9 Surgical Approaches

23.9.1 Microscopic Approach
In modern tympanoplasty, the postauricular and transcanal approaches are often used because of their excellent access and minimal external scarring. Although less commonly used, the Lempert endaural approach remains a viable option in certain cases. This technique involves a semicircular incision approximately 1cm posterior to the auricle fold, followed by mobilization of the anterior ear to expose the musculoperiosteum. A musculoperiosteal ap is created and ele­vated toward the membranous ear canal, providing access to the bony canal. The posterior skin of the bony canal is then elevated until reaching the tympanome­atal ap incisions. The ap is then elevated, allowing direct visualization of the middle ear cavity.
If necessary, an ossiculoplasty can be performed at this stage to address the ossicular chain disruption. The TM perforation is then meticulously repaired with scissors or cup forceps. Reconstruction is achieved using an underlay technique in which the TM limbus is undermined, the native membrane is ele­vated, and the perforation is covered medially with a carefully placed graft. For optimal graft success, the autologous tissue should completely encompass the TM defect while being securely anchored to the surrounding canal for long­term stability. When elevating the limbus from its bony sulcus in the posterior region, care must be taken to avoid inadvertent injury to the chorda tympani nerve [2].
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23.9.2 Endoscopic Approach
Endoscopic tympanoplasty offers a minimally invasive alternative to the tradi­tional postauricular and endaural approaches to TMP repair. With a transcanal approach and no external incisions, it allows for extensive visualization of the middle ear anatomy, potentially resulting in shorter operative and recovery times compared to microscopic techniques [55, 56]. Similar rates of perforation closure and audiologic improvement have been reported [56]. However, limita­tions include one-handed manipulation and potential thermal damage to sur­rounding structures from the light source of the endoscope. The procedure begins with edge de-epithelization of the perforation, similar to microscopic tympanoplasty. An incision is made in the ear canal (swing door, endaural, or lateral circumferential) to elevate the tympanomeatal ap and annulus to allow access to the middle ear. The malleus is then separated from the TM and ossicu­loplasty is performed if necessary. The prepared graft is positioned medial to the TM remnant and lateral to the malleus, followed by the placement of Gelfoam sponges in the middle and outer ear canals.
As an inlay graft technique, the “buttery cartilage tympanoplasty technique” eliminates the need for tympanomeatal ap elevation [57]. In this technique, carti­laginous pseudo-anges are created to hold the graft in place. The graft is positioned with one ange medial to the TM and the other lateral. Once secured, Gelfoam sponges are arranged around the graft’s border.
23.10 Incisions inTympanoplasty
Tympanoplasty is based on three primary surgical approaches: transmeatal, endau­ral, and postauricular. Each technique offers distinct advantages and limitations, highlighting the lack of a universally superior approach suitable for all TM perfora­tions. Therefore, the optimal choice of incision for tympanoplasty requires careful consideration of the specic characteristics of the disease, particularly its location and extent.
Understanding the unique features of each incision allows surgeons to tailor their approach to the individual needs of the patient. The endaural, postauricu­lar, and transmeatal options provide flexibility to address different cases of TMP and offer optimal outcomes based on the location and severity of the pathology. In conclusion, the selection of the appropriate incision for tympano­plasty is a crucial decision that should be guided by a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition to ensure an effective and personalized surgical inter­vention [58].
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23.10.1 Transmeatal Incisions
The transmeatal approach stands out as the sole method that eliminates the need for an external incision. However, its application becomes challenging in cases where the external ear canal is narrow. The use of a large, nonreecting ear speculum is essential for transmeatal procedures [59]. To facilitate a two-handed approach, auto­matic ear speculums or speculum holders xed to the table are often used. A sub­stantial ear speculum is inserted into the external ear canal and serves as the entry point for surgical procedures performed through the ear speculum. Two distinct incisions are utilized in transmeatal interventions: the Rosen incision, which is used for exploratory myringotomy and the underlay technique, and the incisions used for the Onlay technique [59].
23.10.1.1 The Rosen Incision
The endaural approach developed by Rosen is particularly useful for treating poste­riorly located TM perforations using the underlay technique. It also facilitates ossi­culoplasty and exploratory myringotomy procedures. Following meticulous periosteal inltration with an anesthetic agent via dental needle, particularly in the suture regions, a wide ear speculum is positioned to minimize bleeding and allow for gentle periosteal scraping. Vertical incisions, typically 8–10mm in length, are then meticulously placed between the 6–11 o’clock and the 7–12 o’clock positions, commencing just superior to the annulus and extending down to the bone, encom­passing the periosteum. Using a sickle or axe scalpel, these incisions are meticu­lously connected at the superior aspect, either in an oval conguration or parallel to the annulus. The external ear canal skin is then carefully elevated from superior to inferior using medium-sized mirror elevators, taking care to preserve skin integrity. Any remaining incompletely dissected areas are cautiously opened with microscis­sors, avoiding excessive force. As the skin peels down towards the annulus, a thin aspirator tip or cotton-covered tip is utilized to avoid skin injury. Once the annulus is reached, the middle ear is accessed with increased caution, entering below the annulus where the skin is thinner.
Throughout the incision process, the skin of the external auditory canal, TM, and annulus can be tilted forward to optimize the visual eld. This approach allows for either stapedectomy or ossiculoplasty, or the placement of a graft as an underlay, depending on the specic surgical objectives. This incision technique plays a key role in enabling effective and minimally invasive interventions within the middle ear through the transmeatal approach [60].
23.10.1.2 Incisions Used forOnlay Technique
With this incision, the transmeatal approach initiates with meticulous inltration of the entire periosteum of the external auditory canal using an anesthetic administered through a dental needle. This is followed by secure placement of a large ear specu­lum for optimal visualization. Two parallel incisions, 8–10mm apart and 6–8mm long, are carefully placed on the posterior wall skin between the 6–11 o’clock and the 7–12 o’clock positions, perpendicular to the TM. These incisions create a
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vascular stripe and extend inferiorly to the bone. They are connected by a horizontal incision along the posterior wall 1–2 mm above the annulus and parallel to the TM.This meticulous dissection is continued superiorly using a small mirror care­fully maneuvered along the incision with an elevator. Simultaneously, a second inci­sion is meticulously created 8–10 mm above the TM, connecting the existing superior vertical incisions on the anterior wall. Utilizing small mirror elevators, the external auditory canal skin is meticulously elevated toward the TM, carefully pre­serving the epithelial layer on the TM for subsequent grafting. This epithelial layer is then meticulously dissected from the underlying periosteum and preserved in serum along with the canal skin for later use in the graft. In particular, the bony annulus requires dissection with a cutting tool due to the fusion of the canal skin periosteum with the underlying osseous structure. Throughout the procedure, thor­ough removal of all overlying epithelium from the TM is crucial for successful grafting [5, 7, 58].
23.10.1.3 Anterior Tympanomeatal Flap
Limited visualization and an insufcient anterior TM remnant pose signicant chal­lenges for both inlay and underlay tympanoplasty techniques in anterior perfora­tions. Improper graft placement, particularly inadequate coverage or damaging annulus elevation, can lead to complications such as blunting and inferior hearing outcomes.
Transcanal cartilage endoscopic tympanoplasty with anterior tympanomeatal ap elevation is a minimally invasive and feasible solution for anterior perforations comprising less than 50% of the TM [61]. This approach offers several advantages over conventional techniques.
Reduced invasiveness: The anterior tympanomeatal ap incision is intentionally designed to be less than half the size of the annulus and remains medial to the mal­leus handle, effectively protecting the malleus region of the TM.
Improved visualization: Flap elevation signicantly improves access to the ante­rior TM defect, facilitating precise graft placement.
Simplied dissection: Minimal tissue dissection is required, eliminating poten­tially risky maneuvers such as malleus handle or chorda tympani dissection.
Preserved anatomy: The technique avoids unnecessary disruption of crucial structures, potentially promoting faster healing and better functional outcomes.
The detailed steps of the anterior tympanomeatal ap elevation are shown in Fig.23.6.
23.10.2 Endaural Incision
The exploratris approach demonstrates remarkable versatility and serves as a valu­able technique for various otologic procedures, including myringotomy, tympano­plasty, and even mastoidectomy. While its broad applicability is evident in these procedures, it’s important to recognize its potential limitations in scenarios involv­ing extensive mastoid cavities or procedures requiring frontal access.