Glomus tympanicum--excision by radical mastoidectomy exposure with autograft reconstruction

Wide surgical exposure, total tumor removal and anatomic and functional reconstruction are the goals of tumor management. These goals are met by radical mastoidectomy exposure for the removal of glomus tympanicum tumors and reconstruction by autograft replacement of the posterior osseous canal, and if the tympanic membrane, malleus and incus are removed for tumor exposure, autograft replacement may also be accomplished. The history, physical findings, X-rays and details of surgical management of two patients with glomus tympanicum are reviewed. Wide removal of the posterior osseous canal, just lateral to the VIIth nerve with total replacement of this segment gives excellent exposure of the middle ear space and affords total reconstruction of the posterior osseous canal.