Equine versus bovine pericardium in transmeatal underlay myringoplasty.

This research investigates the comparative outcomes of using bovine and equine pericardium in a specific type of ear surgery called transmeatal underlay myringoplasty. Results reveal that equine pericardium has a higher success rate than bovine pericardium, although both are less successful than utilizing autologous fascia. The researchers attribute the higher success rate of equine pericardium to its relatively thinner constitution and easier handling and modeling features.

Objective of the Research

The primary goal of this study was to examine the efficacy of bovine and equine pericardium when used in transmeatal underlay myringoplasty. This involved a comparative evaluation of both types of pericardium to verify their usefulness and success rates in the procedure. The results were put into perspective by comparing them to the outcomes of using autologous temporalis fascia, a commonly used grafting material in this surgical procedure.

Research Methods

• A group of 52 patients, all of whom had tympanic perforations, constituted the study sample.
• The patients were divided into three groups: one treated with bovine pericardium, another with equine pericardium, and a third with autologous temporalis fascia.
• Outcome measures included whether the used material successfully sealed the perforation and how well the patients recovered post-surgery.

Results of the Research

• The research showed variable degrees of success across the application of different grafting materials. The autologous fascia group realized the highest success rate, with a 93% closure rate. The equine pericardium and bovine pericardium groups recorded a success rate of 83% and 66%, respectively.
• Patients who were treated with equine pericardium showed better functional results than those treated with bovine pericardium.

Conclusion

• In terms of long-term tympanic closure, equine pericardium demonstrated a higher take-up rate than bovine pericardium.
• Both equine and bovine pericardium proved to be less effective than autologous fascia. However, the use of pericardium results in a less invasive technique than the procedure involving autologous fascia.
• The higher success rates realized with equine pericardium were accredited to its thinner structure and easier handling, which make it a more malleable material for the procedure.

In conclusion, the research suggests that equine pericardium shows potential as a viable alternative to bovine pericardium in transmeatal underlay myringoplasty, although it is not as effective as using autologous fascia.