Randomization and blinding
Randomization was performed using computer-generated block randomization. Patients were randomized into 2 treatment groups: use of antibiotic ointment in the EAC (UAO group) and no use of antibiotic ointment (NAO) group. The allocation was performed using a sealed envelope system. All the patients accepted endoscopic cartilage underlay myringoplasty by the same surgeon under total intravenous anesthesia, which does not involve the raising tympanomeatal flap.The participants were unmasked to the treatment allocation.