Techniques in Management of Cholesteatoma: Modified Radical and Retrograde Mastoidectomy

When surgically managing cholesteatoma, the Bondy modified radical mastoidectomy (MRM) and retrograde mastoidectomy can enhance visualization while minimizing the extent of surgery required for disease removal. The Bondy MRM can be used for disease limited to the atticoantral space, when the ossicles and middle ear space are otherwise healthy, and for canal cholesteatomas. The retrograde mastoidectomy offers a safe alternative for patients with unfavorable tegmen and sigmoid sinus positions and poorly pneumatized mastoids. Both approaches achieve favorable recidivism rates and postoperative hearing outcomes. This article serves as a reference regarding indications, techniques, and complications for these approaches.