Complications of otitis media requiring surgical intervention
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Published on: May 23, 2021
Yeoh T Long1, Ridzo Mahmud, A Sani
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 5000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. ytlong@tm.net.my
Background:
Although the incidence of complications of otitis media that require surgical interventions has decreased substantially over the past few years, it is a prevailing condition for which clinicians should remain vigilant.
Methods:
We conducted a 3-year review [June 1998 to June 2001] in our hospital of surgical records of patients with complications of otitis media that were treated surgically.
Results:
There were 16 patients with complications of otitis media, of which nine [56%] were intracranial; brain abscess and lateral sinus thrombosis were the most common intracranial complications. Extracranial complications were present in 15 [94%] of the patients; mastoid abscess [40%] was the most common extracranial complication. Seven [44%] patients had two or more concomitant complications. All patients with intracranial complications recovered well with no neurological deficits after aggressive antibiotic therapy and initial surgical treatment by neurosurgeons. Modified radical mastoidectomy was the most common surgical otological procedure that was performed in these cases.
Conclusions:
Aggressive antibiotic therapy and combined management of cases by otologists and neurosurgeons are the key to reducing the morbidity and mortality of the serious complications of otitis media.
Insights
Surgical intervention for otitis media complications remains crucial despite decreased incidence. Aggressive antibiotic therapy and combined otologist-neurosurgeon management are key to favorable outcomes, especially for intracranial issues.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Otitis media complications requiring surgery, though less common, necessitate continued clinical vigilance.
- The study addresses a persistent condition despite advancements in treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review surgical interventions for complications of otitis media.
- To identify common complications and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A 3-year retrospective review of surgical records for otitis media complications (June 1998-June 2001).
- Analysis of patient demographics, complication types, and surgical procedures.
Main Results:
- 16 patients underwent surgical treatment for otitis media complications.
- Intracranial complications (brain abscess, lateral sinus thrombosis) occurred in 56% of patients.
- Extracranial complications (mastoid abscess) were present in 94% of patients; 44% had multiple complications.
- All intracranial cases resolved without neurological deficits after aggressive treatment.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive antibiotic therapy is vital for managing serious otitis media complications.
- Combined otologist and neurosurgeon management improves patient outcomes.
- Surgical intervention, including modified radical mastoidectomy, plays a significant role in treatment.
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