Stem cells and enhanced healing of chronic tympanic membrane perforation.

Abstract

CONCLUSIONS: Important information about the basic reparative process of tympanic membrane (TM) healing is shown, which can be incorporated for further clinical understanding. This provides a basis for the exploration of stem cell treatment for TM perforations and holds promise for future improvements. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyse the healing of TM perforation by using stem cells and the stiffness of the membrane was tested in an acute and long-term study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were used in a model of TM perforation. The perforation was performed with a laser system. Stem cells were applied and the healing time and morphological analysis were performed with light and transmission electron microscope. Stiffness was examined by moiré interferometry. RESULTS: The stiffness of the perforated and healed TM was restored after just 2 weeks. In the chronic perforation model, mesenchymal stem cells enhanced the healing.