Overlay versus underlay tympanoplasty. Part II: the study.

This report compares two contemporary techniques of tympanic membrane repair. The prospective comparison study included 712 cases over 9 years. Whether the tympanic membrane was repaired by an underlay or an overlay technique, results were reliable. By making a postauricular incision, greater visibility of the operative site can be obtained. Larger perforations can be closed more reliably when greater exposure is obtained. The placement of the graft above or below the annulus is not the issue. Careful technique and precise work are the keys to successful tympanoplasty. Thus otologic surgeons should cultivate effective techniques, attempting to continuously improve their results to achieve perfection.