title: Freeze-dried otologic implants.
abstract: Allograft reconstruction of the middle ear transformer mechanism is not difficult and affords a like-for-like replacement of missing parts. Allografts also afford a logical system of middle ear and external auditory canal reconstruction by providing a very similar biologic and anatomic replacement when autograft material is not available. The allograft fibrous tympanic membrane is most valuable in maintaining the accurate position of the malleus. An otologic allograft sterilized by ethylene oxide and freeze-dried is an attractive alternative to the use of chemically fixed grafts or prosthetic alloplasts. It has the inherently superior mechanical design of an allograft as well as minimum of donor tissue physiochemical alteration. Moreover, it is capable of more normal metabolc and mechanical function, a more normal histological structure, and a more normal gross anatomical appearance. In addition, it may be reliably remodeled and repaired.
mesh_terms: D003080:Cold Temperature; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000637:transplantation*; D005612:Freeze Drying; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D008722:Methods; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D014184:Transplantation, Homologous