ABSTRACT
Background : The practice of otology in developing countries has remained unsatisfactory. The aim of this study is to describe the practice in a tertiary health institution with a view to articulate strategies for improvement. Materials and Method : This a retrospective study of patients with otology problems; who attended Ear; Nose and Throat clinic of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital; Kano; over a 10-year period (1997-2007). Case notes were retrieved and studied. Results : Otologic conditions accounted for 56.3of the 8070 clinic visits. The most frequent condition seen was chronic otitis media (25.4). Sensorineural hearing loss (mostly preventable) accounted for 16. Other cases included wax impaction (7.5) and foreign body in ear (7.3). Modern diagnostic and operative equipment were lacking. Operative surgery was offered to 4of cases of chronic suppurative otitis media and 72of patients needing hearing aid could not afford one. There was no middle ear reconstructive or inner ear operation in the 10-year period. Conclusion : A significant number of patients are in need of otology services. These services are inadequate presently. Concerted effort should be geared toward strengthening preventive ear health; training and re-training; procurement of relevant diagnostic and operative equipment