A pilot study investigating basic fibroblast growth factor for the repair of chronic tympanic membrane perforations in pediatric patients

Abstract

Objective: A pilot study to investigate the utility of basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF) in tympanic membrane perforation (TMP) closure in a small cohort of pediatric patients.

Methods: Prospective cohort study. Suitability for inclusion in the study was confirmed by the application of defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and informed parental consent obtained. The technique used was a modification of the bFGF-technique by Kanemaru et al. Response to treatment was monitored with serial otoscopy and audiometric outcomes were determined. Statistical analysis of the outcomes was carried out.

Results: TMPs were successfully closed in 7/12 children at the first attempt (58%) and in 10/12 children overall (83%). Hearing improvement was observed in 8/10 successfully treated cases (80%). There were no complications or adverse outcomes.

Conclusions: The topical bFGF regeneration technique offers a promising, minimally invasive alternative to conventional myringoplasty in pediatric patients with comparable success and reduced morbidity and cost, especially considering the option of performing repeat applications. Patients with an active infection or inflammation are not suitable for the bFGF-mediated technique.

Keywords: Fibroblast growth factor; Myringoplasty; Otitis media; Pediatric; Regeneration; Tympanic membrane perforation.