ABSTRACT
Facial nerve dehiscence [FND] is a common problem at surgery of cholesteatoma: The aim of this study was survey of the common site of FND and the common complication of cholesteatoma that coexists with FND. This-cross sectional study was performed from 2001 to 2006. 185 patients with cholesteatoma were studied. Middle ear Findings at surgery of cholesteatoma were surveyed. Data was analyzed using the k[2] and Fisher exact test. of 185 cases, 95 [51.4%] were male and 90 [48.6%] were female and the mean age was 30.5 years. The rate of FND was 29. 73% [55 cases]. The common site of FND was tympanic segment [85.4%]. The positive statistically association between FND incidence and the presence of lateral semicircular fistula was demonstrated. The most common area of facial nerve injury at surgery of cholesteatoma is tympanic segment. Surgeons should always consider that fallopian canal will be eroded and the facial nerve is in direct contact with cholesteatoma whenever a lateral semicircular canal fistula is suspected or vice versa