Antimicrobial action of rolitetracycline in gelatin sponge packs (Marbagelan) in tympanoplasty

: Gelatine sponge packs (Marbagelan) saturated in rolitetracycline (Reverin) were evaluated. The antimicrobiotic efficacy of the substance was determined in 26 packs before insertion and in 20 packs removed from the external ear meatus after varying periods. High concentrations of rolitetracycline were found independent of saturation grade in the packs before insertion. In the packs removed from the external meatus acceptable antimicrobial activity was found independent of the time the packs remained in the ear. An efficient prophylaxis against infection in ear surgery is guaranteed.