A New Treatment Approach for Tympanic Membrane Repair: Stabilization of Fascia Grafts Using a PLGA-Based Tissue...

This study aimed to design a bioabsorbable, biocompatible poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based tissue stabilizer for a new tympanoplasty method and to evaluate its feasibility. A PLGA copolymer with a lactic acid: glycolic acid ratio of 50:50 was used to fabricate the stabilizers via melt molding using custom-designed molds. The surface morphology of the fabricated stabilizers was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro degradation profiles were evaluated over a 60-day period in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), simulated body fluid (SBF), and trypsin environments, and biocompatibility was assessed using direct and indirect proliferation assays with human fibroblasts. SEM analyses revealed a smooth and homogeneous surface morphology. Degradation studies demonstrated a controlled and progressive decrease in residual mass over time. Cell proliferation assays indicated that the PLGA stabilizer exhibited no cytotoxic effects. In rabbit models, the tissue stabilizer improved fascia graft stabilization, resulting in more regular epithelialization and higher tympanic membrane closure rates compared with the control and fat myringoplasty groups. This approach may improve surgical efficiency and patient comfort by enabling shorter operative times, reduced surgical invasiveness, and the potential use of local anesthesia.