Perichondrium versus composite cartilage perichonderial graft in revision tympanoplasty

Numerous grafting materials could be used in tympanoplasty either autografts or homografts. Still, temporalis fascia and perichondrium are the most common grafts to be used. Cartilage has shown promising results as a graft material to close perforations. It has more rigid quality and tends to resist resorption and retraction. In this study, we used perichondrial cartilage composite graft [PCCG] in comparison with perichondrium. The inclusion criteria included 30 patients with large, recurrent, safe perforations and bad E.T. function. They were divided according to graft type into 2 equal groups. PCCGs gave better results as regards correction of E.T. function and prevention of graft retraction. In conclusion we found that the perichondrium and PCCG are suitable and efficient grafting materials in revision tympanoplasty

Assessment of the pharynx by acoustic pharyngometry in normal subjects and obstructive sleep apnoea patients

This prospective controlled study included 40 middle aged subjects of both sexes divided into two groups: Group A included 20 normal subjects and group B included 20 patients suffering from snoring with or without obstructive sleep apnea. Both groups were investigated by acoustic pharyngometer, by which the cross sectional area of different segments of the pharynx was recorded and analyzed for the standardization of normal curve by standard operating procedure. Acoustic pharyngometry proved to be an easy method to assess the possible level[s] of obstruction