Comparison of Titanium versus Polycel as Partial Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Biomaterials Science
• Audiology

Background:

• The selection of optimal prosthesis materials for ossiculoplasty remains a subject of ongoing research.
• Partial ossicular replacement prostheses (PORP) are utilized in reconstructive middle ear surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the hearing outcomes of titanium versus Polycel PORP in patients undergoing ossiculoplasty.
• To evaluate the efficacy and success rates of different PORP materials.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study involving 106 patients undergoing second-stage ossiculoplasty with PORP.
• Patients were allocated to either a titanium (n=54) or Polycel (n=52) prosthesis group.
• Pre- and post-operative audiometric data were analyzed to assess hearing outcomes.

Main Results:

• A post-operative air-bone gap within 20 dB was achieved in 63.5% of the Polycel group and 55.6% of the titanium group, with no statistically significant difference (P=0.407).
• No significant sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was observed in either prosthesis group.

Conclusions:

• Hearing outcomes and success rates for PORP are comparable between titanium and Polycel prostheses.
• The choice between titanium and Polycel PORP can be guided by surgeon preference, material availability, and cost considerations.