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A Comparative Study of Drug Delivery Methods Targeted to the Mouse Inner Ear: Bullostomy Versus Transtympanic Injection
Published on: March 8, 2017
Transtympanic steroids in refractory sudden hearing loss. Personal experience
I Dallan1, L Bruschini, A Nacci
12nd ENT Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Pisan, Italy. iacopodallan@tiscali.it
Summary
Transtympanic steroid injections effectively treated sudden sensorineural hearing loss in 70% of patients unresponsive to conventional therapies. This method offers a safe alternative, delivering higher inner ear concentrations with minimal systemic absorption.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) treatment remains challenging.
- Systemic steroids are effective but carry significant side effects and contraindications.
- The transtympanic approach offers localized delivery and reduced systemic absorption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of transtympanic steroid treatment for SSNHL in patients refractory to conventional therapies.
- To assess hearing improvement following transtympanic methylprednisolone and sodium bicarbonate injections.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, non-randomized study involving 10 SSNHL patients.
- Transtympanic injections of methylprednisolone and sodium bicarbonate.
- Hearing levels assessed pre-treatment and on days 1, 7, and 30 post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Hearing improvement was observed in 70% of treated patients.
- Positive outcomes were noted even in patients typically not candidates for such treatments.
- The transtympanic route demonstrated effectiveness in a challenging patient cohort.
Conclusions:
- Transtympanic steroid treatment is a safe and effective option for SSNHL patients who have failed conventional treatments.
- This localized approach enhances drug concentration in the inner ear.
- Further research is required to optimize dosage, administration, and steroid type.
