Grafting techniques

Grafting of the tympanic membrane is different and more difficult than skin grafting elsewhere on the body because it covers an air-containing cavity. The two main techniques of grafting are the overlay and underlay methods. The advantages, disadvantages, types of grafting materials, and surgical approaches of both the overlay and underlay methods are discussed and evaluated. This article also reviews the evolution of tympanic membrane grafting techniques and evaluates the causes behind success or failure.