Comparative Analysis of Ear-packing Materials in Postoperative Recovery: Outcomes and Efficacy

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the optimal type and duration of ear packing for postoperative care in ear surgery, focusing on various outcomes including postoperative complications, pain levels, patient satisfaction, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness.Materials and methods: Conducted as a prospective study in a tertiary care hospital, 100 patients undergoing various ear surgeries were enrolled.Participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups according to the ear-packing material used: absorbable gelatine sponge, silicone-based material, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge, or chitosan-based material.The duration of ear packing varied among 7, 14, or 21 days.The study focused on evaluating postoperative complications, pain levels, patient satisfaction, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness.Results: The group using the absorbable gelatine sponge reported the lowest rate of postoperative complications (8%) and the highest patient satisfaction (average score: 8.4/10).Pain levels were similar across all groups.Quality of life assessments showed significant improvements in all groups, with the most notable improvement in the absorbable gelatine sponge group.The 14-day packing duration was found to be optimal, showing the lowest complication rates (12%) and highest patient satisfaction scores (average score: 8.1/10).The absorbable gelatine sponge was also found to be the most cost-effective option. Conclusion:The absorbable gelatine sponge emerges as the optimal material for ear packing in postoperative care following ear surgery, particularly with a 14-day duration, balancing complication prevention and patient comfort and satisfaction.Future research should explore the impact of surgeon experience and adjuvant therapies on surgical outcomes.