In search of ideal substance(s) for middle ear reconstruction, various materials were used and investigated in tympanoplasty.Up to may 1996, three kinds of materials were be used to reconstruct the ossicular chain: 1. Auto-ossicular residue reposition, 153 ears; 2. Homo-ossicle transplantation, 119 ears; 3. Homo-chondroseptum transplantation, 93 ears. We analysed and compared the middle and long-term results in these three groups.1. In auto-ossicular residue reposition group, 86.3% was satisfied 10 years postoperation; 2. The satisfaction rate was 76.5% in homo-ossicle transplantation group; and 3. In the group of homo-chondroseptum graft, 77.4% of satisfaction rate was reached.Auto-ossicular residue reposition is a better choice for ossicular chain reconstruction. That is responsible for its convenient, free of rejection, and better long-term results.