The Use of a SQUID Magnetometer in the Study and Development of Normal and Artificial Middle Ear

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Abstract
In developing an artificial membrane in a total alloplastic middle ear (TAM) prosthesis (1) one of the main research goals is mechanical compatibility (besides biological compatibility). First, micromechanically .apprxeq. 10-9-10-6 m), vibration amplitude spectra in response to sound must match that of the natural membrane in a sufficiently wide frequency range (between 200 and 10,000 Hz). Second, macromechanically (.apprxeq. 10-3 m), the elasticity modulus must be in the natural range for purposes of epithelial overgrowth and ingrowth. As ingrowth requires a porous material structure, porosity is a relevant structural variable, to be monitored by use of scanning electron micrographs. Finally, the material must sustain sterilization, at a temperature of about 120.degree. C. In this paper we present vibration measurements of six polymers and also of two natural membranes in temporal bones in which the middle ear ossicles were removed. Also elasticity data are presented. Materials which did not sustain sterilization are omitted.

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