Normal temporal fascia were experimentally implanted following the removal of the tympanic membrane in guinea pigs. The guinea pigs were observed using a transmission electron microscope from four weeks to two years after the implant. The healing process of an experimentally perforated tympanic membrane was also observed. Results
1) In the experimental tympanoplasty, the temporal fasciae in the graft were replaced by nonspecific inflammatory granulation tissues in the early stages and gradually underwent consolidation of the scar tissue. The specific fine fibrils in the tympanic membrane which were quadrangular and less than 10nm thick did not appear in the restored tympanic membranes. Usual collagen fibrils, which are rarely seen in the normal tympanic membrane, dominated in the fibrous connective tissues.
2) The component of the restored tympanic membrane in the tympanoplasty was indicative of cicatrice tissue.
3) On the other hand, in the healing processes of the experimental myringotomy, specific and proper fine fibrils of the tympanic membrane, as well as the usual collagen fibrils and elastic fibers, were recruited into the regenerating tissues.
