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Shape of the Osseous External Auditory Canal and Its Relationship to Troublesome Cavities
Author(s) -
Spronsen Erik,
Waegeningh Huibert F.,
Geerse Simon,
Fokkens Wytske J.,
Ebbens Fenna A.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.25474
Subject(s) - auditory canal , medicine , computed tomographic , anatomy , mastoidectomy , computed tomography , surgery , cholesteatoma
Objectives/Hypothesis On the basis of clinical observations, the shape of the osseous external auditory canal (OEAC) has often been seen as an etiological factor in troublesome cavities after modified radical mastoidectomy. Study Design Retrospective analysis of CT scans. Methods To assess the role of the shape of the OEAC in troublesome modified radical cavities using computed tomographic scans of three groups of patients (without pathology and with or without draining cavities), we determined the depth of the pretympanic recess (DPTR) and its anterior curvature (ACPTR). In addition to looking at the shape of the OEAC, we also studied the role of any remaining mastoid air cells in relation to troublesome radical cavities, as well as the consultation frequency. Results The DPTR was significantly deeper in draining cavities than in ears without pathology and dry cavities. No difference in the ACPTR was observed. The presence of remaining mastoid air cells is significantly associated with the presence of a troublesome radical cavity. Conclusions The shape of the OEAC (i.e., the DPTR) is a contributory factor to the drainage of modified radical cavities. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope , 126:693–698, 2016