Stem cells and enhanced healing of chronic tympanic membrane perforation

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.