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Published on: April 28, 2023
Role of surgery in the management of otogenic meningitis
Y Slovik1, M Kraus, A Leiberman
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva, Israel. youvals@bgumail.bgu.ac.il
Abstract:
Meningitis is a life-threatening complication of otitis media. The appropriate management and the role of surgical intervention are still controversial, and there are no evidence-based guidelines in this regard. We report three cases of otogenic meningitis, initially treated with parenteral antibiotics and myringotomy, followed by surgery. Two patients had an emergency mastoidectomy and one patient underwent surgery one month post-recovery due to the suspicion of bone erosion on a computed tomography scan. In two cases, a canal wall up procedure was performed, and one patient underwent revision of a radical mastoidectomy. In all cases, no pus or granulations were seen in the mastoid. Two patients fully recovered and one patient died. We review the literature and critically discuss the role, timing and preferred type of surgery for otogenic meningitis.
Insights
Otogenic meningitis, a complication of otitis media, requires careful management. This case series highlights surgical interventions alongside antibiotics, with varied outcomes and a need for evidence-based guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Meningitis is a severe complication of otitis media.
- Current management and surgical roles lack evidence-based guidelines.
Observation:
- Three cases of otogenic meningitis treated with antibiotics, myringotomy, and subsequent surgery.
- Surgical procedures included emergency mastoidectomy and delayed surgery for suspected bone erosion.
- No intraoperative pus or granulation tissue was found in the mastoid.
Findings:
- Two patients recovered fully; one patient died.
- Surgical approaches varied, including canal wall up and revision radical mastoidectomy.
Implications:
- This study underscores the complexity of otogenic meningitis management.
- Further research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for surgical intervention timing and type.
- Optimal surgical strategies for otogenic meningitis remain under investigation.
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