[Chronic otitis in the one remaining functional ear: therapeutic problems and sequelae (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Chronic otitis media poses significant risks, especially when complicated by cholesteatoma.
• The presence of a cholesteatoma in a patient with a single functioning ear presents a unique and high-stakes clinical challenge.

Observation:

• This study analyzes dangerous cases of chronic otitis with cholesteatoma.
• Particular attention is given to cases involving a labyrinthine fistula in the affected ear.

Findings:

• The management of cholesteatoma in a single-sided deafness scenario requires meticulous surgical planning.
• Labyrinthine fistulas in such cases necessitate a highly cautious approach to preserve residual hearing and prevent complications.

Implications:

• Clinical decision-making in these complex otologic conditions carries substantial medico-legal weight.
• Establishing clear protocols for managing unilateral cholesteatoma with labyrinthine fistula is crucial for patient safety and legal protection.