In comparison with the paper patch method, PRF, a new method, provided more rapid healing with more successful audiological results, and with no requirement for a second procedure.

Background and Aims: Tinnitus, which affects 15% of general populations and in 1-6%, the quality-of-life is seriously affected by a chronic condition. Chemical, oxidative, and emotional stressors are important in terms of the clinical course of tinnitus. Apelin mediates oxidative stress. We measured apelin levels in patients with tinnitus affecting both ears, but without hearing loss. Material and Methods: We enrolled patients diagnosed with bilateral idiopathic tinnitus. Tinnitus severity was determined using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory. We recorded the levels of plasma apelin-13 and biochemical parameters. Results: The mean apelin level of the control group was higher than that of the patient group (p = 0.002). A significant negative correlation was evident between the apelin level and the THI (r = 0.460, p = 0.003). The TG level was significantly higher in the patient than the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: As tinnitus severity increased, the apelin level fell. Thus, apelin may play a role in the pathophysiology of idiopathic tinnitus, and may be prescribed during follow-up to reduce oxidative stress in the future. Further clinical studies on the effects of the apelin/APJ system and the effects of antioxidants in patients with inflammatory diseases, are required. Key words: apelin, oxidative stress, tinnitus

The healing time of the tympanic membrane perforation was determined as mean 10.3 ± 2.18 days in the study group applied with PRF and 17 ± 2.40 days in the control group. Higher values in respect of fibrosis and neovascularization were obtained in the study group.

Bilateral atresia of the external acoustic meatus is a rare condition. It is a subtype of congenital aural atresia, which comprises a spectrum of developmental ear abnormalities. In this case report, we present the computed tomography (CT) findings of a patient with this congenital anomaly and emphasize the importance of the findings with regard to treatment options. CT revealed bilateral atresia of the external acoustic meatus in coronal and axial sections of an 8-year-old boy was admitted to hospital due to hearing loss. No congenital anomaly was detected in the middle and inner ear structures. Early detection of congenital aural atresia is critical. Speech retardation and accompanying anomalies associated with hearing loss may be seen in these patients. CT is essential for the diagnosis and classification of congenital bilateral aural atresia, identification of concomitant ear anomalies, and determination of the appropriate surgical treatment method.