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Surgery for external auditory canal exostoses and osteomata
1Department of Otolaryngology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Surgery for ear canal exostoses is technically challenging, especially in advanced cases. This study reviews a decade of experience, highlighting complication rates and recommending surgical approaches for better outcomes in water sports enthusiasts.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Techniques
- Auditory Health
Background:
- Water sports popularity in Western Australia drives demand for ear canal exostosis surgery.
- Advanced meatal exostoses present significant surgical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review a decade of experience with exostosis and osteoma surgery.
- To analyze complication rates and outcomes.
- To recommend optimal surgical approaches.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 127 procedures on 102 patients over ten years.
- Analysis of exostectomy as an access maneuver and for recurrent exostoses.
- Documentation of minor and major complication rates.
Main Results:
- 127 procedures performed, with 13 for access and 5 for regrowth.
- Minor complications occurred in 22% of surgeries.
- Major complications (e.g., canal stenosis, hearing loss) occurred in 5%, with no facial palsies.
Conclusions:
- Exostosis surgery should be reserved for cases failing conservative treatment.
- Focus on adequate surgical access, meatal skin preservation, and tympanic membrane protection is crucial.
- An approach emphasizing safe anterior landmarks and wide exposure minimizes serious complications.