Results of mastoidectomies for otitis media

Chronic ear infection is not always amenable to medical management. We report a study of 45 cases of mastoidectomies for chronic discharging ears. Thirty six patients out of 45 had cholesteatoma. Intracranial and extracranial postaural abcess is most often accompanied by extensive cholesteatoma, complications were seen in 17% cases. Mean preoperative hearing level was 40 dB and the mean air bone gap was 28 dB. Canal wall down mastoidectomy was performed in 42 patients. Majority of the ears [82%] were free of any residual or recurrent disease after a minimum period of 3 months follow up. Microscopic examination of middle ear after suction clearance was essential part of preoperative evaluation and post operative follow up