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Updated: Jun 5, 2026

A Comparative Study of Drug Delivery Methods Targeted to the Mouse Inner Ear: Bullostomy Versus Transtympanic Injection
Published on: March 8, 2017
Systemic side effects of transtympanic steroids
Ashley B Robey1, Trish Morrow, Gary F Moore
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Nebraska, Medical Center, Nebraska, USA.
Transtympanic steroids offer low systemic and local side effect risks for ear conditions. However, a notable risk of persistent tympanic membrane perforation exists after treatment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Transtympanic steroid administration is an emerging treatment for various ear conditions.
- Understanding the safety profile and efficacy of this delivery method is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the largest series of patients treated with transtympanic steroids.
- To analyze outcomes, steroid dosing, and adverse events.
- To report the first cases of systemic side effects from transtympanic steroids.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 166 patients.
- Patients underwent transtympanic Silverstein tube placement with microwick for steroid delivery.
Main Results:
- Low incidence of systemic (5/166) and local (9/166) side effects.
- Significant rate of persistent tympanic membrane perforation (48/166, 29%).
- Symptom improvement observed in hearing loss (42%), tinnitus (56%), vertigo (68%), aural fullness (25%), and dysequilibrium (66%).
Conclusions:
- Transtympanic steroid administration is associated with a low risk of systemic and local side effects.
- A significant risk of persistent tympanic membrane perforation necessitates careful consideration.
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