Restoration of middle-ear input in fluid-filled middle ears by controlled introduction of air or a novel air-filled implant.

摘要: Abstract The effect of small amounts air on sound-induced umbo velocity in an otherwise saline-filled middle ear (ME) was investigated to examine the efficacy a novel balloon-like air-filled ME implant suitable for patients with chronically non-aerated MEs. In this study, bubbles or implants were introduced into human cadaveric Umbo velocity, convenient measure response, served as indicator hearing sensitivity. Filling saline reduced by 25–30 dB at low frequencies and more high frequencies, consistent earlier work (Ravicz et al., Hear. Res. 195: 103–130 (2004)). Small (∼30 μl) increased substantially, levels only 10–15 dB lower than dry ME, frequency- location-dependent manner: contact tympanic membrane (TM) all while located away from TM below about 500 Hz. also affected manner similar bubble equivalent compliance. Inserting additional had same increasing volume. These results suggest these middle-ear would significantly reduce conductive loss fluid-filled