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[Epithelialization of titanium prostheses in the middle ear of the rabbit. Possible model of mucosa development]
1Universitäts-HNO-Klinik Würzburg.
Background:
The epithelialization of middle ear implants is regarded as a sign of biocompatibility of the implant material.
Methods:
The mucosal coverage of titanium was studied in the middle ear of rabbits in light microscopy. Implants were used as middle ear prostheses or as a free implants. Studies were performed after 28, 84, 168, 336, and 504 days.
Results:
The prostheses were seen to be covered by regular mucosa after 28 days. The free implants were not seen to be totally epithelialized even after 504 days. There were no inflammation cells on the surface of the material, nor were unusual amounts of fibrous tissue observed. The middle ear mucosa was initially thickened, but soon returned to normal values.
Conclusions:
The results of this animal experiment show that titanium is a suitable material for ossicular replacement.