Dimension of the human middle ear determined using cone beam computed tomography for the scaling of middle ear homografts

Introduction:

Allogenic middle ear transplants can be used for the reconstruction of middle ear defects. The grafts obtained from human cadaveric donors are checked for their quality. However, the size of the grafts is not in the focus of quality check-ups. Aim of the study is therefor to obtain dimensions of middle ear structures in order to provide patients with size-adapted homografts for better outcomes.

Material and Methods:

A total of CB-CT scans were measured from n = 180 ears. The diameter of the anulus fibrosus and the distance from the umbo to the oval window were measured.

Results:

The biggest diameter of the tympanic membrane ranged from 6.5 – 11.5 mm in coronar sections of the CB-CT and between 6.5 – 11 mm in axial sections. The majority of the tympanic membranes showed a diameter between 8 and 9.5 mm. Thus, this could be offered a standard size. Homografts with diamters oft he anulus fibrosus smaller than 8 mm and larger than 9.5 mm should be sized as „small“ and „large“ respectively.

Discussion:

The sizes of the tympanic membrane were obtained based on CB-CT scans. Based on the data, standardized sizes could be determined. Thus, homografts can be transplanted in a size -matched manner for individualized and patient-tailored treatment. In addition, off the shelf scaffolds for tissue engineering could be developed based on a standardized manner.

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 April 2018 (online)