Using stem cells for treating tympanic membrane perforation

Tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs) can occur as a result of trauma, surgery and infection. Tympanoplasty can be challenging and costly and necessitate a highly trained otolaryngologist. The healing process of a perforated tympanic membrane (TM) occurs through many complex steps of cell proliferation and migration and the interplay of a series of biomolecules. Therefore, alternative therapies using growth factors or other molecules to enhance the chances of TMP closure have been investigated. These molecular therapies appear appropriate for small, uncomplicated perforation, but larger and chronic perforations usually require surgery. Furthermore, no surgical or molecular therapies can restore the natural trilaminar configuration of the tympanic membrane. Some authors hypothesized the existence of stem cells within the tympanic membrane (TM) responsible for its regeneration. These cells were described around the umbo and along the malleus. Cell-based therapy is a promising area of research. Stem cells are thought to enhance wound healing through TMPs. This review the focus is on the role of stem cells and their related products in the management of tympanic membrane perforations by searching for publications in the past 15 years using engines like PubMed, Medline and Scopus. The results of the search amount to a series of thirty-four articles covering methods used for generation of TMPs. This review while taking into consideration the conventional methods of TMP repair will highlight mostly advances in the use of biological materials including stem cells.

کلیدواژه ها:

Tympanic membrane perforation ، Cell therapy