From a Sow’s Ear to a Silk Purse: Innovations in Ear Perforations and Otology Breakthroughs

Board-certified UCI Health physician and fellowship-trained otology, neurotology, and skull base surgeon Hamid Djalilian, MD joins the podcast to discuss his expertise on ear-related medical and surgical problems, including tinnitus, chronic ear infections, and innovative treatments for tympanic membrane perforations. Hear groundbreaking advancements in minimally invasive procedures, the latest research on tinnitus treatment, and the future of hearing restoration. Whether you're a medical professional or simply curious about the latest in otolaryngology, this episode offers a deep dive into the cutting-edge developments transforming patient care. Tune in to learn how UCI Health is leading the way in medical innovation and improving the quality of life for patients.

Topics discussed:

• Understanding and treating tinnitus as a brain disorder.
• The link between tinnitus and central nervous system sensitivity.
• Ongoing research into future implantable devices to further reduce or eliminate tinnitus symptoms.
• Development of an office-based, minimally invasive procedure to repair tympanic membrane perforations using processed porcine tissue and autologous blood serum.
• A new hearing aid that directly stimulates the eardrum, providing higher-quality sound compared to traditional devices.