Impact on quality of life after mastoid obliteration

To understand the long-term impact on quality of life (QOL) in patients undergoing mastoid obliteration surgery for a chronically draining cavity, using the Glascow Benefit Inventory (GBI) QOL survey, and to correlate these findings to perceived changes in drainage and hearing.

Retrospective chart review.

Adult patients undergoing mastoid obliteration and restoration of the middle ear space with cartilage reconstruction of the tympanic membrane, with at least 3-year follow-up, were contacted by phone to solicit participation. Those who agreed to participate were mailed the GBI and consent documents with a prepaid self-addressed envelope.

Of 80 patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 37 were successfully contacted and agreed to participate, yielding 23 returned questionnaires. The vast majority (19 of 23; 83%) reported improved QOL after surgery, with the most positive effects seen on confidence and social situations, and patients experiencing less inconvenience, self-consciousness, and embarrassment. Eighty-three percent reported a perceived improvement in hearing; 74% reported an improvement in drainage. Over 90% would recommend the procedure to a family member. The average score on the GBI was 28.9, and a two-tailed one-sample t test showed that mastoid obliteration significantly improved QOL in our patients (t = 4.65, P < .001). There was a fairly good correlation between the perceived improvement in QOL with improvement in hearing and/or drainage.

The GBI is a valuable tool for evaluating patient satisfaction after revision surgery for a draining cavity. This information is helpful in understanding the impact of a draining cavity on an individual's life and may be beneficial in preoperative selection and counseling.