[Homograft tympanic membrane and ossicular chain (author's transl)]

Ten years study of the use of homografts in reconstructive surgery of the ear have enabled the author to achieve excellent results, from both a functional as well as anatomical standpoint. At present, restoration of auditory function is almost always possible. The viability of homografts of the tympanic membrane, the annulus, tendons, ligaments and periosteum seems to pose no problem but revitalisation of the ossicles is less certain. A description is given of the different methods used for the removal of transplant material, its fixation, selection and conservation.