Early repair of blast ruptures of the tympanic membrane

A method and results of early repair of blast rupture of the tympanic membrane in 24 selected cases, where flaps and/or free edges of the torn eardrum could be detected by examination with the operating microscope, are presented. By reversion of the flaps and approximation of the edges, the perforation was closed or significantly diminished. This ensured the healing of the tympanic membrane in all cases within days instead of months. No complications were noted during a subsequent two to three-years' follow-up. The improved hearing was stable.