CANAL WALL RECONSTRUCTION - A NEWER IMPLANTATION TECHNIQUE

An innovative hydroxylapatite canal wall implant underlies a new techn ique for reconstructing canal wall defects in well-pneumatized ''disea se-free'' mastoid cavities. Previous primary reconstruction involving soft-tissue techniques were not always optimal, depending on the size of the defect. The new hard implant provides lasting canal wall contou r, and the implantation technique can be duplicated by other otolaryng ologists. Our experience with the implant is described in 11 patients (implant duration 2 to 37 months) using a modification of the techniqu e described by Grote (1986). The implant is biocompatible, being incor porated into surrounding tissues. Indications, contraindications (rela tive and absolute), and the intraoperative sculpturing method are pres ented. Long-term and short-term complications are reviewed with sugges tions to minimize complications.