Otomycosis risk after non-suppurative middle ear surgery.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Postoperative otomycosis is a potential complication following Chronic Nonsuppurative Otitis Media (CNSOM) surgery.
• Identifying risk factors is crucial for preventing and managing this condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the risk factors associated with the development of otomycosis in patients undergoing CNSOM surgery.
• To analyze perioperative factors contributing to postoperative fungal ear infections.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 409 patients who underwent CNSOM surgery.
• Evaluation of perioperative factors including cerumen, flap positioning, and medical comorbidities like Diabetes Mellitus (DM).
• Classification of otomycosis as early (within 30 days) or late post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Diabetes Mellitus (DM), tympano-meatal flap positioning, and firmly adhered cerumen removal were significantly associated with increased otomycosis risk.
• Individuals with advancement flap, DM, and cerumen removal were 2.0, 2.8, and 2.1 times more likely to develop otomycosis, respectively.
• DM was the sole identified risk factor in patients who developed late otomycosis.

Conclusions:

• Compromised epithelial integrity and reduced blood circulation in the external auditory canal are independent risk factors for postoperative otomycosis.
• Understanding these factors can guide preventative strategies and improve patient outcomes after CNSOM surgery.