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Round Window Fistula Caused by Politzerization: An Unreported Complication
Robert T Sataloff, Mary J Hawkshaw1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia.
Summary
Politzerization, an ear treatment, can rarely cause a round window fistula, a serious inner ear complication. This case report details this rare event and reviews historical data.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Audiology
Background:
- Politzerization is a historical otologic procedure to ventilate the middle ear.
- The Eustachian tube dysfunction is a common condition treated with Politzerization.
- Literature review from 1861 to 2022 on Politzerization and its complications.
Observation:
- A case report detailing a rare complication of Politzerization.
- The patient developed a round window fistula following the procedure.
- This complication has not been previously documented in medical literature.
Findings:
- Transnasal Eustachian tube Politzerization can lead to perilymph fistula.
- Round window fistula is a rare but significant complication.
- The incidence of this complication is extremely low.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of this rare complication of Politzerization.
- Further research may be needed to understand the mechanism and prevention of this fistula.
- This finding contributes to the understanding of Eustachian tube interventions and their potential risks.
