Clinical Study of Cholesteatoma in Otitis Media

Introduction: The introduction of the otomicroscope in ear surgery has undoubtedly resulted in a better and more scientific approach to ear disease and has also added a fresh dimension to the treatment of chronic suppurative otitis media i.e. reconstruction of hearing mechanism. Although western reports indicate that the rate of cholesteatomatous complications is as low as 1 or 2 percent, it remains a significant cause of morbidity and even mortality in our country. Material and methods: This study included fifty cases of chronic supprative otitis media with cholesteatoma. In all cases detailed history were obtained and Otoscopic, otomicroscopic and tunning fork tests were performed. X-ray mastoids (Schuller’s view) and CT scan was done for patients with complications. Result: Chronic otitis media (COM) commonly occurs in the age group from 11 to 30 years (76%). Otorrhea was the main reason for consultation (100%). Destruction of incus was the commonest Intraoperative finding (76%). Malleus was absent in (30%) while stapes superstructure was eroded in (40%). Intracranial complications were seen in 28% whereas 18% cases presented with extra cranial complications. Conclusion: Chronic otitis media is prevalent in lower socio-economic strata. Patients often present late with advanced disease process associated with complications. Meticulous clinical examination should be done and surgery should be accordingly planned.