The effect of gelfilm in the prevention of fibrosis in the middle ear of the animal model.

HYPOTHESIS

Gelfilm offers protection against fibrosis in the middle ear when used in combination with Gelfoam.

BACKGROUND

Gelfoam is used routinely as a support structure in the middle ear cleft when ossicular reconstruction and tympanic membrane grafts are performed. It has been recognized that fibrosis may occur in this setting if the middle ear mucosa is denuded. Materials have been used to protect the mucosa in an attempt to prevent scar bands, adhesions, and fibrosis and its potential detriment on hearing. These materials have included Teflon, Silastic, and Gelfilm. Concerns have arisen regarding this mode of therapy and its benefit.

METHODS

This study looks at the effects of implanting Gelfoam independently and Gelfoam and Gelfilm concurrently in the bulla cavity of the Mongolian Gerbil. The temporal bones were harvested and evaluated histologically using hemotoxylin and eosin staining for fibrosis.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated a decrease in the amount of fibrosis in the animals in which Gelfilm was used to protect the denuded mucosa. No evidence of fibroblast ingrowth or scar bands penetrating the Gelfilm was identified.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that Gelfoam can be used safely in the middle ear cleft to support ossicular prosthesis and tympanic membrane grafts when Gelfilm is used to protect denuded mucosa.