Simultaneous round and oval window fistulae in a child

Sudden hearing loss from simultaneous rupture of both oval and round windows, occurring in the only hearing ear of a child, is described. The condition was surgically managed with recovery of hearing. Of particular note was the presence of air aspirated into the labyrinth at the time of membrane rupture, which has not previously been described. The possible mechanisms and some clinical correlates associated with anatomic predisposition to such rupture are discussed.