Early repair of traumatic perforations of the tympanic membrane in children.

The results of early repair of traumatic perforations of the tympanic membrane by alignment and approximation of the fragmented drum and paper patching of the defect are described in 14 children. The procedure was performed under light general anaesthesia, using Ketalar (ketamine hydrochloride) in a minimal dosage. In all cases except one, healing following patching was complete and uneventful. The disadvantage of general anaesthesia is outweighed by the prompt and uncomplicated healing, and a higher percentage of defect closure, compared with untreated cases in other reports.