Tympanic membrane reconstruction using formaldehyde-formed autogenous temporalis fascia: twenty years' experience

This study describes 20 years' experience with autogenous temporalis fascia that is formed and shaped by formaldehyde cross-linking with special Fasciaform (Hear America, Palo Alto, Calif.) molds in the repair of large tympanic membrane perforations. One hundred twenty operations in 113 patients were performed between 1973 and 1993 to close large perforations in patients with intact ossicular chains. All perforations were successfully closed by this technique. Audiometric studies indicated that the postoperative air-borne gap was closed to within 0 to 10 dB in 63% and to within 0 to 20 dB in 97%. One patient had a 15-dB sensorineural hearing impairment. Graft lateralization requiring revision occurred in three patients, two of whom had previous unsuccessful tympanoplasties. Comparisons of adult vs. pediatric groups and primary vs. revision groups were made. The technique ensures the removal of any ectopic epithelium on the medial surface of the tympanic membrane remnant and provides for easy graft placement and stability during healing without the use of middle ear Gelfoam (Upjohn Co., Kalamazoo, Mich.). The formaldehyde-formed fascia graft or Fasciaform graft technique provides an effective method of closing large perforations with excellent functional results and minimal complications.