Effect of Canalplasty on Outcome of Results in Type I Tympanoplasty

Abstract

Background: The aim of the surgical procedure of tympanoplasty is to strive to achieve an intact neo tympanum with normal hearing acuity. Widening of the external auditory canal, called canalplasty, helps in better visualization and hence better placement of the tympanic membrane graft. Aim of this study was to compare effect of canalplasty on the outcome of results of type I tympanoplasty. Methods: 50 cases of patients diagnosed with chronic otitis media mucosal disease with a central dry perforation involving two or more quadrants of the tympanic membrane were included in the study. One group of 25 cases underwent tympanoplasty with canalplasty and was grouped under Group I while the other group of 25 cases underwent tympanoplasty without canalplasty and was called group II. Results: Analysis was done for graft uptake, hearing improvement and time taken for the surgery. Group I achieved a success rate of 92% graft uptake as compared to group II, which achieved 84%. There was statistically significant improvement in post-operative hearing in cases with canalplasty. Time taken was between the two groups were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Anatomical and technical factors diversely affect the functional outcome of tympanoplasties. Canalplasty helps in better visualization and placement of the graft. Time spent on drilling in canalplasty is compensated by the time gained in grafting of the neo tympanum. The procedure prevents lateralization of the graft due to the accurate exposure of the annulus. Post operative care is also easier in cases of tympanoplasty with canalplasty.

Keywords

• Tympanoplasty
• Canalplasty
• Ear Canal
• Operative Time