Micro macroporous biphasic ceramics and fibrin sealant as a moldable material for bone reconstruction in chronic otitis media surgery. A 15 years experience.

Bone reconstruction is still a matter of concern in middle ear surgery despite the large number of surgical techniques proposed. Combination of biphasic calcium phosphate bioceramics with human fibrin sealant forms a moldable material easy to apply for bone reconstruction. Since 1986, we have been using this composite for reconstruction of mastoid cavities during chronic otitis media surgery. Granules of ceramic provide immediate mechanical stability and later on, promote osseoinduction when fibrin sealant forms a strong bond between granules enhancing the wound healing process. After checking feasibility, efficacy and tolerance through a controlled study on dogs by filling mastoid cavities, we started a clinical series comprising yet 66 mastoid reconstructions. A retrospective data analysis on 63 patients with an average follow up of 42 months including 12 histological controls confirms the stability of bone reconstruction with a remarkable tolerance of the skin in contact. Biopsies confirmed progressive replacement of material by lamellar newly formed bone. Mastoid cavities have a randomed shape making complex bone reconstruction procedure and their filling by the composite constitutes an easy way and represents a highly satisfactory procedure. The authors considered that this should be explored in other indications of bone surgery.