Application of amniotic membrane for covering mastoid cavity in canal wall down mastoidectomy: Amniotic Membrane for Covering Mastoid Cavity

OBJECTIVE: Prevention of granulation tissue formation and acceleration of epithelialization of the mastoid cavity in canal wall down (CWD) mastoidectomy by use of amniotic membrane (AM) as a biologic dressing. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective and randomized study. METHODS: During CWD mastoidectomy, an inferiorly base musculoperiosteal flap was rotated into the cavity. In order to coverage of this flap, the AM (75 ears) or the temporalis fascia (control group, 73 ears) was used. The times for mastoid cavity epithelialization were compared in both groups. RESULTS: In the AM group, duration of complete epithelialization of the cavity was 41.4 ± 7.7 days, whereas in the control group it was 59.2 ± 9.1 days. Duration of time for complete epithelialization in the AM group was shorter than in the control group, which was significant (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The use of AM in CWD mastoidectomy is beneficial in minimizing postoperative epithelialization time. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1b Laryngoscope, 129:1453-1457, 2019.