[Alloplastic materials in otological surgery. An update]

Alloplastic materials have been employer as replacement of the ossicular chain, in the reconstruction of the posterior wall of the outer ear and even in filling up the mastoid process. But owing to the restrictive laws in some countries relative to the transplantations of homologous ossicles and first of all for fear of viral transmissions through the procedures a new light is shed in this field of the ear surgery. In the paper the AA, make a critical revision of replacement alloplastic prosthesis considering the lately introduced materials. The majority of the prosthesis, specially those in plastic, give not, either in short or long term, worthy results. Autologous tissues are, as always have been, the first choice in the reconstructive management of the anatomy of the middle ear. Alloplastic materials being the second chance, by virtue of its recognized intolerance at long terms.