The authors evaluated improved hearing after removal of the siliconemembrane (SM) used for reconstruction of the tympanic cavity. The authors use removable SM led from the middle ear by a thin handle into the auditory meatus. The membrane is removed by simple traction after healing, i.e. after 3 - 6 weeks. The majority of otosurgenons leaves the SM permanently in the middle ear. The authors created a control group of 58 ears where the SM was used during surgical revision and left for 4 - 6 months which simulated permanent leaving of the SM. In the control group the threshold of air conduction before and after removal of theSMwas assessed and the differences were statistically evaluated. In the paired t-test there was significant improvement at all frequencies, in the non-paired t-test only at the frequency of 500 Hz.

        Key words: silicone membrane, removal, auditory gains.