Comparative study on the effects of EGF and bFGF on the healing of human large traumatic perforations of the tympanic membrane

Overcoming barriers: a review on innovations in drug delivery to the middle and inner ear

Despite significant advances in the development of therapeutics for hearing loss, drug delivery to the middle and inner ear remains a challenge. As conventional oral or intravascular administration are ineffective due to poor bioavailability and impermeability of the blood-labyrinth-barrier, localized delivery is becoming a preferable approach for certain drugs. Even then, localized delivery to the ear precludes continual drug delivery due to the invasive and potentially traumatic procedures required to access the middle and inner ear. To address this, the preclinical development of controlled release therapeutics and drug delivery devices have greatly advanced, with some now showing promise clinically. This review will discuss the existing challenges in drug development for treating the most prevalent and damaging hearing disorders, in particular otitis media, perforation of the tympanic membrane, cholesteatoma and sensorineural hearing loss. We will then address novel developments in drug delivery that address these including novel controlled release therapeutics such as hydrogel and nanotechnology and finally, novel device delivery approaches such as microfluidic systems and cochlear prosthesis-mediated delivery. The aim of this review is to investigate how drugs can reach the middle and inner ear more efficiently and how recent innovations could be applied in aiding drug delivery in certain pathologic contexts.

Comparative study of fibroblast growth factor 2 and ofloxacin ear drops for repairing large traumatic perforations: A randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare the healing outcome of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), ofloxacin ear drops (OFLX) and spontaneous healing for repairing large traumatic tympanic membrane (TM) perforations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 75 traumatic large perforations with >1/4 of TM were randomly divided into FGF2 (n = 25), OFLX (n = 25), and spontaneous healing (n = 25) groups. The closure rates, closure times, and hearing gains were compared at 3 months.

RESULTS

At 2 weeks after treatment, the closure rate was 95.8 % in the FGF2 group, 96.0 % in the ofloxacin ear drops group, and 14.3 % in the spontaneous healing group (P < 0.01), respectively. At 3 months after treatment, the closure rate was 100 % in the FGF2 group, 100 % in the OFLX group, and 85.7 % in the spontaneous healing group, no among-group differences were significant (P > 0.05). The mean closure time was 9.69 ± 2.46 days in the FGF2 group, 9.45 ± 2.32 days in the OFLX group, and 30.94 ± 8.95 days in the spontaneous healing group (P < 0.01). The mean ABG was 10.37 ± 2.51 dB for the FGF2 group, 11.01 ± 1.31 dB for the OFLX group, and 10.86 ± 1.94 dB for the spontaneous healing group, no significant difference was found among three groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggested that both FGF2 and OFLX significantly shortened the mean closure time and improved the closure rate compared with spontaneous healing for repairing large traumatic perforations, while the healing outcome wasn't significantly different among FGF2 and OFLX groups.

Tragus Perichondrium-Cartilage Island and Temporalis Muscle Fascia for Repairing Tympanic Membrane Perforation Under the Otoendoscope: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical effects of repairing tympanic membrane perforation (TMP) with the tragus perichondrium-cartilage island and temporalis muscle fascia (TMF) under the otoendoscope.

METHODS

The clinical data of 84 patients (total 84 ears) with TMP repaired by otoendoscopy from March 2019 to April 2021 were analyzed. The patients were randomly divided into the control group (n = 42, TMF repair) and the experimental group (n = 42, perichondrium-cartilage island repair). The intraoperative blood loss, operation time, length of hospital stay, success rate of the TMP repair, mean air-conducted sound, and air-bone gap before and after surgery were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The mean air-bone gap and mean air-conducted hearing threshold in the experimental group were significantly lower after surgery at all frequencies than those of the control group (all P < .05). The reduction of the mean air-conducted hearing threshold in the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < .001). The surgery time of the experimental group was significantly shorter than the control group (78.04 ± 2.23 vs. 84.27 ± 1.67 minutes, P < .001). The success rate of the TMP repair was 95.24% (40/42) in the experimental group and 92.86% (39/42) in the control group, indicating that there was no significant difference in the success rate of TMP repair between the two materials (risk ratio = 1.75; 95% confidence interval: .31-12.04; P = .71).

CONCLUSION

Repairs with the tragus perichondrium-cartilage island have a short operation time, high healing rate, and more significant postoperative hearing improvement, which makes it a more effective method of TMP repair.

Roles of the fibroblast growth factor signal transduction system in tissue injury repair

Following injury, tissue autonomously initiates a complex repair process, resulting in either partial recovery or regeneration of tissue architecture and function in most organisms. Both the repair and regeneration processes are highly coordinated by a hierarchy of interplay among signal transduction pathways initiated by different growth factors, cytokines and other signaling molecules under normal conditions. However, under chronic traumatic or pathological conditions, the reparative or regenerative process of most tissues in different organs can lose control to different extents, leading to random, incomplete or even flawed cell and tissue reconstitution and thus often partial restoration of the original structure and function, accompanied by the development of fibrosis, scarring or even pathogenesis that could cause organ failure and death of the organism. Ample evidence suggests that the various combinatorial fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and receptor signal transduction systems play prominent roles in injury repair and the remodeling of adult tissues in addition to embryonic development and regulation of metabolic homeostasis. In this review, we attempt to provide a brief update on our current understanding of the roles, the underlying mechanisms and clinical application of FGFs in tissue injury repair.

Molecular and Clinical Significance of Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 in Development and Regeneration of the Auditory System

The fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is a member of the FGF family which is involved in key biological processes including development, cellular proliferation, wound healing, and angiogenesis. Although the utility of the FGF family as therapeutic agents has attracted attention, and FGF2 has been studied in several clinical contexts, there remains an incomplete understanding of the molecular and clinical function of FGF2 in the auditory system. In this review, we highlight the role of FGF2 in inner ear development and hearing protection and present relevant clinical studies for tympanic membrane (TM) repair. We conclude by discussing the future implications of FGF2 as a potential therapeutic agent.

Repair of large traumatic tympanic membrane perforation using ofloxacin otic solution and gelatin sponge

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic large tympanic membrane perforations usually fail to heal and require longer healing times. Few studies have compared the healing and hearing outcomes between gelatin sponge patching and ofloxacin otic solution.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the healing outcomes of large traumatic tympanic membrane perforations treated with gelatin sponge, ofloxacin otic solution, and spontaneous healing.

METHODS

Traumatic tympanic membrane perforations >50% of the entire eardrum were randomly divided into three groups: ofloxacin otic solution, gelatin sponge patch and spontaneous healing groups. The healing outcome and hearing gain were compared between the three groups at 6 months.

RESULTS

A total of 136 patients with large traumatic tympanic membrane perforations were included in analyses. The closure rates were 97.6% (40/41), 87.2% (41/47), and 79.2% (38/48) in the ofloxacin otic solution, gelatin sponge patch, and spontaneous healing groups, respectively (p=0.041). The mean times to closure were 13.12±4.61, 16.47±6.24, and 49.51±18.22 days in these groups, respectively (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Gelatin sponge patch and ofloxacin otic solution may serve as effective and inexpensive treatment strategies for traumatic large tympanic membrane perforations. However, ofloxacin otic solution must be self-applied daily to keep the perforation edge moist, while gelatin sponge patching requires periodic removal and re-patching.

FGF2 and EGF for the Regeneration of Tympanic Membrane: A Systematic Review

Objective

A systematic review was conducted to compare the effectiveness and safety of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) for regeneration of the tympanic membrane (TM).

Methods

The PubMed database was searched for relevant studies. Experimental and clinical studies reporting acute and chronic TM perforations in relation to two healing outcomes (success rate and closure time) and complications were selected.

Results

A total of 47 studies were included. Five experimental studies showed closure rates of 55%-100% with FGF2 compared with 10%-62.5% in controls for acute perforations. Five experimental studies showed closure rates of 30.3%-100% with EGF and 3.6%-41% in controls for chronic perforations. Two experimental studies showed closure rates of 31.6% or 85.7% with FGF2 and 15.8% or 100% with EGF. Nine clinical studies of acute large perforations showed closure rates of 91.4%-100% with FGF2 or EGF. Two clinical studies showed similar closure rates between groups treated with FGF2 and EGF. Seven clinical studies showed closure rates of 88.9%-100% within 3 months and 58%-66% within 12 months using FGF2 in repair of chronic perforations, but only one study showed a significantly higher closure rate in the saline group compared with the FGF2 group (71.4% vs. 57.5%, respectively, P = 0.547). In addition, three experimental studies showed no ototoxicity associated with FGF2 or EGF. No middle ear cholesteatoma or epithelial pearls were reported, except in one experimental study and one clinical study, respectively.

Conclusions

FGF2 and EGF showed good effects and reliable safety for the regeneration of TM. In addition, EGF was better for the regeneration of acute perforations, while FGF2 combined with biological scaffolds was superior to EGF for chronic perforations, but was associated with high rates of reperforation over time. Further studies are required to determine whether EGF or FGF2 is better for TM regeneration.

The effectiveness and safety of growth factors in the treatment of tympanic membrane perforations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

To determine the clinical efficacy and safety of growth factors in the treatment of tympanic membrane (TM) perforations from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

Databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Ebsco, Ovid, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched for articles in any language about studies on the treatment of TM perforations with growth factors. Inclusion criteria were: (1) randomized controlled trials (RCTs); (2) only patients with TM perforations included; and (3) any kinds of growth factors or related products were used as an intervention. Exclusion criteria were: (1) study was not reported as a full paper, only as an abstract; (2) review studies and case reports; and (3) an inability to extract valid data. Outcomes of interest included perforation closure rate, closure time, hearing improvement, and complications.

RESULTS

Nineteen RCTs with a total of 1335 participants were included. Growth factors effectively increased the rate of perforation closure [risk ratio (RR): 1.21 95% confidence interval (1.12, 1.30), p < 0.01] and shortened closure time [mean difference (MD): - 16.71 (- 22.74, - 10.15), p < 0.01]. There was no significant difference in hearing improvement [MD: 0.10 (- 0.50, 0.70), p = 0.74] or complications [RR: 1.49 (0.96, 2.32), p = 0.07] between the growth factor intervention group and the control group.

CONCLUSION

Growth factors are effective and safe in the treatment of TM perforations. However, better designed clinical trials should be carried out in the future to obtain more robust findings about the effectiveness of growth factors in the treatment of TM perforations.

Topical Application of bFGF Alone for the Regeneration of Chronic Tympanic Membrane Perforations: A Preliminary Case Series

Results

A total of 29 patients consisting 13 in the bFGF alone group and 16 in the myringoplasty group were finally included in the analysis. Of the 13 patients in the bFGF alone group, the perforations were small in 6 and medium in 7; the etiology was secondary to COM in 11 and to trauma in 2. One patient with an unhealed perforation continued bFGF treatment until 6 months, while the others stopped at 3 months. Of the seven medium-sized perforations, none of the five COM perforations closed, while the two traumatic perforations achieved complete closure within 2 and 4 weeks, respectively. The successful closure rate was 28.6% (2/7). Successful closure was achieved in 66.7% (4/6) of the six small perforations with COM, with a mean closure time of 4.75 weeks. Of the 16 patients in the myringoplasty group, all perforations were medium-sized and were secondary to COM in 15 cases and traumatic in 1 case; all achieved complete closure.

Conclusions

bFGF alone facilitated the repair of chronic traumatic perforations and small perforations with COM, but not medium-sized perforations with COM. These observations indicated that the regenerative conditions of traumatic perforations are better than those of COM perforations when using bFGF alone, and that graft materials could play a critical role in the regeneration of larger-sized chronic perforations with COM.

The Effectiveness of bFGF in the Treatment of Tympanic Membrane Perforations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective:

To investigate the effectiveness of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) versus placebo or no intervention in the treatment of tympanic membrane (TM) perforations from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective and retrospective studies.

Data Sources:

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were screened from their inceptions to June 2019.

Study Selection:

Inclusion criteria: 1) English language; 2) observational (retrospective or prospective) or treatment (RCT) studies; 3) reported the outcomes on the application of bFGF in adult or pediatric population. Exclusion criteria: 1) studies without a control group; 2) animal studies, in vitro studies, review studies, and case reports.

Data Extraction:

Number of patients, cause of TM perforation, perforation size, treatment, mean age, follow-up time, sex, closure rate, healing time, mean air-bone gap improvement.

Data Synthesis:

A total of 14 studies were included, including seven RCTs and seven non-RCTs with a total of 1,072 participants. The odds ratio for closure rate of bFGF treatment was 7.33 (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.65 to 11.53; p < 0.01; I² = 44%) and the standardized mean difference (SMD) for healing time was –5.89 (95% CI: –7.85 to –3.93, p < 0.01, I² = 98%), suggesting bFGF application has a significant effect on closure of TM perforations. However, no significant change in hearing (SMD: 0.08, 95% CI: –0.11 to 0.27, p = 0.39, I² = 0%) was seen as a result of bFGF treatment.

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis has revealed that the application of bFGF can significantly enhance the closure rate as well as shorten the healing time for TM perforations. In terms of hearing, there is as yet no evidence that bFGF has a significant effect. Given its ease, availability, and safety, bFGF can be used effectively for TM repair.

Can Tissue Engineering Bring Hope to the Development of Human Tympanic Membrane?

The tympanic membrane (TM), more commonly known as the eardrum, consists of a thin layer of tissue in the human ear that receives sound vibrations from outside of the body and transmits them to the auditory ossicles. The TM perforations (TMPs) are a common ontological condition, which in some cases can result in permanent hearing loss. Despite the spontaneous healing capacity of the TM to regenerate in the majority of cases of acute perforation, chronic perforations require surgical interventions. However, the disadvantages of the surgical procedure include infection, anesthetic risks, and high failure of graft patency. The tissue engineering strategy, which includes the applications of a three-dimensional (3D) scaffold, cells, and biomolecules or a combination of them for the closure of chronic perforation, has been considered as an emerging treatment. Using this approach, emerging products are currently under development to regenerate the TM structure and its properties. This research aimed to highlight the problems with the current methods of TMP treatment, and critically evaluate the tissue engineering approaches, which may overcome these drawbacks. The focus of this review is on recent literature to critically discuss the emerging advanced materials used as a 3D scaffold in the development of a TM with cellular engineering, biomolecules, cells, and the fabrications of the TM and its pathway to the clinical application. In this review, we discuss the properties of TM and the advantages and disadvantages of the current clinical products for repair and replacement of the TM. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the in vitro and preclinical studies of emerging products over the past 5 years. The results of recent preclinical studies suggest that the tissue engineering field holds significant promise.

Acellular Collagen Scaffold With Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor for Repair of Traumatic Tympanic Membrane Perforation in a Rat Model

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of acellular collagen scaffold (ACS) in combination with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) for the repair of traumatic tympanic membrane (TM) perforation in a rat model.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective controlled animal study in a rat model of traumatic TM perforation.

SETTING

Tertiary medical center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats (N = 84) with unilateral traumatic perforation of the right TMs were randomized to receive ACS, bFGF, ACS in combination with bFGF (ACS/bFGF), or nothing (spontaneous healing without any interventions as a control group). The healing outcomes were evaluated by otoscopy, optical coherence tomography, histology, and transmission electron microscopy at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively. The hearing outcomes were assessed with auditory brainstem response testing.

RESULTS

ACS/bFGF resulted in higher perforation closure rates at an earlier stage than spontaneous healing, ACS, and bFGF. Based on histology, optical coherence tomography, and transmission electron microscopy, a trilaminar structure and uniform thickness with mature, densely packed collagen fibers were seen in the ACS/bFGF group. Auditory brainstem response evaluation also showed that ACS/bFGF treatment promoted faster functional hearing recovery as compared with the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

ACS is an effective TM scaffold and a carrier for bFGF. ACS/bFGF improves the TM closure rate, results in better-reconstructed TMs, and improves hearing. ACS/bFGF serves as a potential substitute for TM perforations in clinical settings.

Advances in regenerative medicine for otolaryngology/head and neck surgery

Head and neck structures govern the vital functions of breathing and swallowing. Additionally, these structures facilitate our sense of self through vocal communication, hearing, facial animation, and physical appearance. Loss of these functions can lead to loss of life or greatly affect quality of life. Regenerative medicine is a rapidly developing field that aims to repair or replace damaged cells, tissues, and organs. Although the field is largely in its nascence, regenerative medicine holds promise for improving on conventional treatments for head and neck disorders or providing therapies where no current standard exists. This review presents milestones in the research of regenerative medicine in head and neck surgery.

Dose- and starting time-dependent effect of the application of EGF to the regeneration of traumatic eardrum

Background: Some studies have shown that topical application of epidermal growth factor (EGF) accelerates healing in traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs), however, the optimal dose and starting time of application have not been established.Objectives: To determine the optimal dose and starting time of application of EGF for the regeneration of TMPs.Methods and materials: Patients with traumatic TMPs were first randomly assigned to low-dose EGF, high-dose EGF, and spontaneous healing groups. Then, the same patients were retrospectively analyzed at 6 months based on the starting time of treatment. The closure times, closure rates, and hearing gain were compared among the groups at 6 months.Results: The mean closure time was 10.20 ± 5.13 days in the low-dosage EGF group, 14.39 ± 6.20 days in the high-dosage EGF group, and 33.17 ± 16.37 days in the spontaneous healing group; the difference was significant (p < .001).Conclusions: Daily application of EGF shortened the closure time of traumatic TMPs compared with those that healed spontaneously. However, high-dose EGF instead prolonged the closure time compared to low-dose EGF.

Low-frequency ultrasound enhances vascular endothelial growth factor expression, thereby promoting the wound healing in diabetic rats

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease with a high prevalence worldwide, which typically delays or impairs wound healing, potentially causing death. Low-frequency ultrasound treatment promotes the repair of various injuries and may promote wound healing. The aim of the present study was to determine whether low-frequency ultrasound can accelerate wound healing, as well as investigate its effects on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in diabetic rats. A total of 45 Wistar rats were intraperitoneally injected with 1% streptozocin following intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium anesthesia. Subsequently an incision wound was created in the skin of back. The area of the wound was recorded to calculate the rate of wound healing. The expression of VEGF and TGF-β1 was determined via immunohistochemical analysis and their mRNA and protein levels were measured via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis. The results revealed that when compared with the control group, low-frequency ultrasound treatment significantly increased wound healing rate in diabetic rats and markedly increased the mRNA and protein levels of VEGF and TGF-β1. US treatment also reduced the mRNA and protein levels of TNF-α and IL-6. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that low-frequency ultrasound promotes the expression of VEGF and TGF-β1, and inhibits the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α, thereby promoting wound healing in diabetic rats.

The effect of epidermal growth factor on the pseudo-healing of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic tympanic membrane perforations tend to heal spontaneously. However, in this study, several perforations exhibited abnormal healing, where the morphology of healing tympanic membranes differed from that of non-perforated tympanic membranes. Pseudo-healing of the tympanic membrane was characterized by the accumulation of thickened tissue in the perforated area.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of epidermal growth factor in cases showing pseudo-healing of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations.

METHODS

A total of 26 traumatic tympanic membrane perforations showing pseudo-healing were included in this study. In all cases, tissue that accumulated in the perforated area was removed, which subsequently caused a new perforation to form. An epidermal growth factor solution was applied to the tympanic membrane once daily to keep the tympanic membrane moist. Closure rates and times were evaluated at 6 months.

RESULTS

During the 6 months follow-up period, two patients were lost. Of the remaining 24 patients, the closure rate was 100% (24/24) and the closure time was 6.1 ± 2.3 days (range: 3-12 days). The morphology of the healed tympanic membrane was not significantly different from that of the remnant tympanic membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

Pseudo-healing of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations affects sound conduction. This can be associated with various symptoms, including tinnitus, aural fullness, and ear discomfort. The excision of excessive epithelial tissue and topical application of epidermal growth factor can correct the pseudo-healing of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations.

Comparative study of epidermal growth factor and observation only on human subacute tympanic membrane perforation

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and observation only on human subacute tympanic membrane perforation (TMP).

METHODS

A total of 44 patients with traumatic TMPs >2 months after trauma were divided into an observation group (n = 18) and EGF group (n = 26). Patients in the EGF group underwent direct application of EGF without stripping of the perforation edge. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months. The TMP closure rate, closure time, and hearing gain were evaluated.

RESULTS

At 6 months, 25 of 26 (96.2%) perforations achieved complete closure with a mean closure time of 9.1 ± 3.9 days (range, 3-14 days) in the EGF group. However, only 11 of 18 (61.1%) perforations achieved complete closure in the observation group, with a mean closure time of 20.6 ± 10.7 days (range = 9-71 days). The patients in the EGF-treated group had significantly improved closure rates (P = 0.026) and a reduced closure time (P < 0.01) compared to those in the observation group. The difference in mean hearing improvement between the two groups was not statistically significant (P = 0.86).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical application of EGF improved the closure rate and shortened the closure time of human subacute TMPs compared with spontaneous healing, the stripping of the perforation edge was unnecessary. This treatment is simple and convenient and should be recommended pre-myringoplasty.

Biological therapies in otology

Hearing loss is present in millions of people worldwide. Current treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss consists of cochlear implantation. Providing the cochlear nerve is intact, patients generally benefit greatly from this intervention, frequently achieving significant improvements in speech comprehension. There are, however, some cases where current technology does not provide patients with adequate benefit. Ongoing research in cell transplantation and gene therapy promises to lead to new developments that will improve the function of cochlear implants. Translation of these experimental approaches is presently at an early stage. This review focuses on the application of biological therapies in severe hearing loss and discusses some of the barriers to translating basic scientific research into clinical reality. We emphasize the application of these novel therapies to cochlear implantation.

Comparison of the medical costs and effects of large traumatic eardrum perforations treatment

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the medical costs and effects of ofloxacin drops (OFLX), gelatin sponge patches, spontaneous healing, and endoscopic myringoplasty on healing in large tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs).

METHODS

In total, 100 patients with large traumatic TMPs involving >50% of the eardrum were randomly assigned to OFLX, gelatin sponge, spontaneous healing, or endoscopic myringoplasty treatment groups. Medical costs, closure times, and closure rates were compared among groups at 6 months.

RESULTS

The closure rates in the OFLX, gelatin sponge, spontaneous healing, and endoscopic myringoplasty groups were 95.7%, 82.6%, 58.3%, and 91.7%, respectively (P = 0.05). The mean closure time was 13.73 ± 6.14 days in the OFLX group, 15.89 ± 4.95 days in the gelatin sponge group, 48.36 ± 10.37 days in the spontaneous healing group, and 12 days in the endoscopic myringoplasty group (P < 0.001). The mean medical costs in US dollars were $15.53 ± 3.15, $103.64 ± 111.58, $11.17 ± 1.33, and $715.90 in the OFLX, gelatin sponge, spontaneous healing, and endoscopic myringoplasty groups, respectively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Although the gelatin sponge and myringoplasty treatments significantly shortened the closure time compared with spontaneous healing, the gelatin sponge patch did not significantly improve the closure rate, and the medical cost of myringoplasty was significantly higher than that of the other treatments. In contrast, OFLX significantly shortened closure time and had a higher closure rate than spontaneous healing, and the medical costs were lower than those of the gelatin sponge and myringoplasty procedures.

Pretreatment factors affecting traumatic tympanic membrane regeneration therapy using epidermal growth factor

OBJECTIVE

The use of epidermal growth factor (EGF) to achieve closure of human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs) was recently reported. However, pretreatment factors affecting healing outcomes have seldom been discussed. This study was performed to evaluate pretreatment factors contributing to the success or failure of TMP healing using EGF.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 95 TMPs who were observed for at least 6 months after EGF treatment. Eleven factors considered likely to affect healing outcome were evaluated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

INTERVENTIONS

Each traumatic TMP was treated by daily topical application of EGF. The main outcome measures were complete closure versus failure to close and mean closure time.

RESULTS

A total of 95 patients were included in the analyses. The total closure rate was 92.6% at 6 months, and the mean closure time was 10.5 ± 4.8 days. The closure rate was not significantly different according to the duration of perforation ≤3 days and >3 days (P = 0.816). However, the mean closure time was significantly different according to the duration of perforation (P < 0.001). The perforation size did not affect the closure rate (P = 0.442). The mean closure time in the low-dose EGF group was significantly shorter than that in the high-dose EGF group (P = 0.001). Logistic regression analyses showed that perforations with preexisting myringosclerosis were more likely to fail to close compared to those without preexisting myringosclerosis (P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that the duration of perforation (P = 0.011), size of perforation (P < 0.001), and involvement of the malleus in perforation (P = 0.005) were factors independently correlated with closure time.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily application of EGF can be used to treat all traumatic TMPs. The size of the perforation and inverted edges did not affect the closure rate, and the most beneficial dosage was sufficient to keep the eardrum moist. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed a significant correlation between preexisting myringosclerosis and failure to heal. Nevertheless, the size of perforation, starting time of application, and malleus injury were independent prognostic factors for prolonged healing time.

Endoscopic observation of different repair patterns in human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations

Introduction

In the last decade, there has been an increasing use of biomaterial patches in the regeneration of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations. The major advantages of biomaterial patches are to provisionally restore the physiological function of the middle ear, thereby immediately improving ear symptoms, and act as a scaffold for epithelium migration. However, whether there are additional biological effects on eardrum regeneration is unclear for biological material patching in the clinic.

Objective

This study evaluated the healing response for different repair patterns in human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations by endoscopic observation.

Methods

In total, 114 patients with traumatic tympanic membrane perforations were allocated sequentially to two groups: the spontaneous healing group (n = 57) and Gelfoam patch-treated group (n = 57). The closure rate, closure time, and rate of otorrhea were compared between the groups at 3 months.

Results

Ultimately, 107 patients were analyzed in the two groups (52 patients in the spontaneous healing group vs. 55 patients in the Gelfoam patch-treated group). The overall closure rate at the end of the 3 month follow-up period was 90.4% in the spontaneous healing group and 94.5% in the Gelfoam patch-treated group; the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, the total average closure time was significantly different between the two groups (26.8 ± 9.1 days in the spontaneous healing group vs. 14.7 ± 9.1 days in the Gelfoam patch-treated group, p < 0.01). In addition, the closure rate was not significantly different between the spontaneous healing group and Gelfoam patch-treated group regardless of the perforation size. The closure time in the Gelfoam patch-treated group was significantly shorter than that in the spontaneous healing group regardless of the perforation size (small perforations: 7.1 ± 1.6 days vs. 12.6 ± 3.9, medium-sized perforations: 13.3 ± 2.2 days vs. 21.8 ± 4.2 days, and large perforations: 21.2 ± 4.7 days vs. 38.4 ± 5.7 days; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

In the regeneration of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations, Gelfoam patching not only plays a scaffolding role for epithelial migration, it also promotes edema and hyperplasia of granulation tissue at the edges of the perforation and accelerates eardrum healing.

Efficacy of EGF and Gelatin Sponge for Traumatic Tympanic Membrane Perforations: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcomes of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and gelatin sponge patch treatments for traumatic tympanic membrane perforations.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled.

SETTING

University-affiliated teaching hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In total, 141 perforations encompassing >50% of the eardrum were randomly divided into 3 groups: EGF (n = 47), gelatin sponge patch (n = 47), and observation (n = 47). The edges of the perforations were not approximated. The closure rate, mean closure time, and infection rate were evaluated at 6 months and the related factors analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 135 perforations were analyzed. At 6 months, the closure rates were 97.8%, 86.7%, and 82.2% in the EGF, gelatin sponge patch, and spontaneous healing groups, respectively (P = .054). The mean ± SD closure time was 11.12 ± 4.60, 13.67 ± 5.37, and 25.65 ± 13.32 days in the EGF, gelatin sponge patch, and spontaneous healing groups, respectively (P < .001). In addition, the presence of infection was not significantly associated with rate of closure in any group.

CONCLUSIONS

As compared with spontaneous healing, daily application of EGF and gelatin sponge patching reduced the closure time of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations. EGF treatment had a higher closure rate and shorter closure time but resulted in otorrhea. By contrast, gelatin sponge patches did not improve the closure rate or cause otorrhea but required repeated patch removal and reapplication. Thus, the appropriate treatment should be selected according to patient need.

Regeneration of the tympanic membrane using fibroblast growth factor-2

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of fibroblast growth factor-2 on the regeneration of tympanic membrane perforation.

METHODS

The PubMed database was searched for relevant studies. Experimental studies, human randomised controlled trials, prospective single-arm studies and retrospective studies reporting acute and chronic tympanic membrane perforations in relation to two healing outcomes (success rate and closure time), were selected.

RESULTS

All 11 clinical studies investigating the effect of fibroblast growth factor-2 on traumatic tympanic membrane perforations in humans reported a success rate of 89.3-100 per cent, with a closure time of around 2 weeks. Three studies of fibroblast growth factor-2 combined with Gelfoam showed that the success rate of chronic tympanic membrane perforation was 83-98.1 per cent in the fibroblast growth factor-2 group, but 10 per cent in the gelatine sponge groups.

CONCLUSION

Fibroblast growth factor-2 with or without biological material patching promotes regeneration in cases of acute and chronic tympanic membrane perforation, and is safe and efficient. However, the best dosage, application time and administration pathway of fibroblast growth factor-2 are still to be elucidated.

The effects of fibroblast growth factor-2 delivered via a Gelfoam patch on the regeneration of myringosclerotic traumatic eardrum perforations lying close to the malleus

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the effects of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) delivered via a Gelfoam patch on the regeneration of myringosclerotic traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs) lying close to the malleus.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, controlled clinical study.

SETTING

A university-affiliated teaching hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We prospectively analyzed, in a randomized manner, the outcomes of treatment for traumatic TMPs constituting >25% of the tympanic membrane. The closure rates, closure times, and otorrhea rates were compared among patients treated via FGF-2-containing Gelfoam patches, Gelfoam patches alone, and observation only.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 138 patients. The perforation closure rates in the FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patch, Gelfoam patch, and observation alone groups were 97.9, 89.8, and 70.7%, respectively. Both the FGF-2 plus Gelfoam and Gelfoam alone groups exhibited significantly higher closure rates than the observational group (both p<0.05).The mean closure times were 15.7±5.1, 24.8±4.9, and 35.7±9.2days in the FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patch, Gelfoam patch alone, and observation alone groups, respectively. The FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patch group exhibited a significantly shorter closure time than the Gelfoam patch alone and observation alone groups (p<0.05). The incidences of purulent otorrhea were 14.6, 6.1, and 4.9% in the FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patch, Gelfoam patch alone, and observation alone groups, respectively. Surprisingly, 7 of 7 (100.0%) perforations associated with purulent otorrhea completely closed in the FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patch group; however, no such perforation healed in either the Gelfoam alone or observation alone group.

CONCLUSIONS

FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patching significantly shortened the closure time compared to observation and Gelfoam patching alone, and it significantly improved the closure rate (compared to observation alone) of myringosclerotic perforations lying close the malleus. FGF-2 plus Gelfoam patching is a valuable, minimally invasive alternative treatment that may be readily applied to outpatient settings.

Management of traumatic tympanic membrane perforation: a comparative study

This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of sea buckthorn oil patches in treating traumatic tympanic membrane (TM) perforations. We enrolled 370 patients with traumatic TM perforations of different sizes. These patients were randomly assigned to control group and treatment group. In the treatment group, a sterile cotton patch with sea buckthorn oil was used to cover the TM perforations. In the control group, patients were treated with a sterile cotton patch. The healing rate and time were compared between the two groups. We found that the overall healing rate was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group. For middle and large TM perforations, sea buckthorn oil treatment led to a significant increase in the healing rate. At 2 months after injury, the duration of healing was, generally, shorter in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05). In conclusion, sea buckthorn oil patches are effective in treating middle and large TM perforations, which results in increased healing rates and decreased healing time.

Effectiveness of patching traumatic eardrum perforations with lens cleaning paper via an otoscope

Objective:

To study the clinical effect of lens cleaning paper patching on traumatic eardrum perforations.

Methods:

A total of 122 patients were divided into 2 groups, of which 56 patients were treated with lens cleaning paper patching and 66 acted as controls. The closure rate and healing time were compared between the two groups.

Results:

The healing rate of small perforations was 96.4 per cent (27 out of 28) in the patching group and 90 per cent (27 out of 30) in the control group. The difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The healing rate of large perforations was 89.3 per cent (25 out of 28) and 80.6 per cent (29 out of 36) in the two groups, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The healing time of large perforations was shorter in the patching group than in the control group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Patching with lens cleaning paper under an endoscope can accelerate the closure of large traumatic eardrum perforations.

A comparative study to evaluate the efficacy of EGF, FGF-2, and 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin drops on eardrum regeneration

BACKGROUND

Traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs) tend to spontaneous healing, however, large TMPs usually fail to healing. Clinical and experimental studies had demonstrated that growth factors accelerated the healing of large TMPs. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of growth factors and 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin drops n the healing of human large TMPs.

METHODS

A total of 184 human large traumatic TMPs were randomly assigned to receive epidermal growth factor (EGF) treatment, fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) treatment, 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin drops treatment, and conservative observation (only).

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were analyzed in this study at the 6-month follow-up. The closure rates of the perforations in the EGF, FGF-2, 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin drops, and conservative observation groups were 91.11%, 93.18%, 95.65%, and 82.22%, respectively, the closure rates did not significantly differ among the groups (P = .165). Similarly, pairwise comparisons did not reveal any significant between-group differences (P > .0083). However, the difference of the mean closure time was significant among the 4 groups (P < .001), pairwise comparisons showed that closure time was significantly longer in the observational group than in the other 3 groups (P < .001). Nevertheless, no significant difference in mean closure time was evident between any 2 treated groups (P > .0083). The mean hearing gain after 6 months was 11.49 ± 5.88 dB for the EGF group, 10.89 ± 5.16 dB for the FGF-2 group, 10.54 ± 5.56 dB for the ofloxacin group, and 9.29 ± 5.36 dB for the observation group. Differences in hearing improvement rates among the 4 groups were not statistically significant (P = .283).

CONCLUSION

Epidermal growth factor, FGF-2, and 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin drops accelerated the closure of large TMPs compared with conservative treatment. Surprisingly, neither the closure rate nor closure time differed significantly among the 3 treated groups. Further experimental studies to demonstrate whether 0.3% (w/v) ofloxacin per se accelerates the healing of TMPs will be interesting in the future.

Histologic changes of mesenchymal stem cell repair of tympanic membrane perforation

CONCLUSION

Mesenchymal stem-cells are good candidates for cell-therapy of chronic tympanic membranes perforations.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of cell-based therapy in tympanic membrane perforations.

METHODS

Young C57BL/6 mice were anesthetized with intraperitoneal administration of ketamine and xylazine and randomly divided into three groups (n = 4 ears/group) that underwent bilateral sub-total pars tensa perforations of equal sizes using a sterile 27-gauge needle under a surgical microscope. Six-to-eight hours after injury, one group of mice did not receive treatment (acute perforation control), and the last two groups were treated with BM-MSCs embedded within HA scaffolds previously soaked in PBS to rinse culture media residues to avoid confounders and were euthanized 1 or 2 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

Untreated tympanic membrane perforations developed a hyper-cellular infiltrate surrounding the injury site, while BM-MSC treated eardrums showed a reduced inflammatory response after the first week and a restoration of the trilaminar configuration 2 weeks after treatment, mimicking a normal tympanic membrane.

[Biological therapies in otology. German version]

Millions of people worldwide suffer from hearing loss. Current treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss consists of cochlear implants. Providing the cochlear nerve is intact, patients generally benefit enormously from this intervention, frequently achieving significant improvements in speech comprehension. There are, however, some cases where current technology does not provide patients with adequate benefit. New therapeutic concepts based on cell transplantation and gene therapy are developing rapidly, at least in the research sector. Compared to the wealth of basic research available in this area, translation of these new experimental approaches into clinical application is presently at a very early stage. The current review focuses on translatable treatment concepts and discusses the barriers that need to be overcome in order to translate basic scientific research into clinical reality. Furthermore, the first examples of clinical application of biological therapies in severe hearing loss are presented, particularly in connection with cochlear implants.

Topical application of epidermal growth factor with no scaffold material on the healing of human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the effects of conservative treatment and topical application of epidermal growth factor (EGF) with no scaffold material on the healing of human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomised clinical trial.

METHODS

A prospective analysis was performed between January 2015 and March 2015 for the treatment of human traumatic TMPs. The closure rate, closure time, hearing gain and rate of purulent otorrhoea were compared between the topical application of EGF and conservative treatment.

RESULT

In total, 97 patients were analysed. The total closure rates did not significantly differ between the observation and EGF groups (83.0% versus 92.0%, P = 0.182). The total average closure time in the observation group was significantly longer than in the EGF group (25.1 ± 10.5 versus 11.7 ± 5.2 days, P = 0.001). When the closure rate was evaluated according to perforation size, no significant difference was seen for medium or large perforations (P = 0.18 and 0.21, respectively). When closure time was evaluated according to perforation size, a significant difference was seen for medium and large perforations (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that topical application of EGF with no scaffold material may significantly shorten the closure time of human traumatic TMPs. Such a shorter recovery time may lead to reduced healthcare costs. This alternative technique to a classic myringoplasty is particularly beneficial and suitable for the closure of large human traumatic TMPs.