Aural polyps and cholesteatoma

A retrospective review of 200 cases of aural polypectomy performed in Glasgow and London was assessed in previously unoperated ears and in those with mastoid cavities. In those with mastoid cavities 72% of the ears became dry whilst only 33% were dry in the previously unoperated group. Cholesteatoma was found in 33% of previously unoperated ears and in 71% with an attic or posterior marginal defect. It can be concluded from these results that aural polypectomy in the presence of a mastoid cavity is a satisfactory procedure but in a previously unoperated ear a more radical procedure should be considered because of its frequent association with underlying cholesteatoma.