THE EXTERNAL ACOUSTIC MEATUS
until the perforation has healed. In cases of suspected or known contami-
nation of the ear a prophylactic course of antibiotic such as intramuscular
penicillin should be given. Small perforations which have not healed in 3
or 4 weeks may be stimulated by very light applications of trichloracetic acid
to the margins. The perforation may be covered by a small patch of oiled
silk or a piece of gelfoam soaked in a drop of the patient's blood. In the
case of unhealed or large perforations myringoplasty is necessary.
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