Tympanoplasty (Ear Drum patching)
A tympanoplasty or myringoplasty is the procedure performed to patch the tympanic membrane. The patching material usually involves taking a small under skin tissue graft from behind the ear. This leaves a small scar behind the ear.
A patching procedure generally works about 75-90 % of the time. If the graft does not “take”; the procedure can be repeated. Children must keep water out of their ear for at least 1 month following the procedure.
Complications are unusual but can include: Graft failure, hearing loss, infection, persisting perforation, cyst formation.
Call Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Illinois for more information or to schedule an appointment.