Experimental study of collagen as eardrum graft support in dogs.

This experimental study involving dogs tested type IV human collagen as a biomaterial for use in the tympanic membrane reconstruction. A loss of substance was induced for the two tympanic membranes, and a type IV collagen graft made to one side. The kinetics of receiver fibroblast colonisation of the graft, as well as in the case of resorption, were studied. Anatomopathological examination revealed the process of reconstitution. This animal study prepares the way for studies on man.