Mastoid and tympanomastoid procedures in otitis media: classic mastoidectomy (simple, modified, and radical) and current adaptations; open-cavity, closed-cavity, and intact-bridge tympanomastoidectomy.

Otitis media is a multifactorial, multifaceted disease that manifests itself in the middle ear, mastoid, and eustachian tube. To select a rational therapy, physicians must have an understanding of the anatomy, function, and pathology of the organs involved and of the mechanisms of disease. The purpose of this article is to provide surgical principles in tympanomastoidectomy and an overall concept of the procedures available. Simple mastoidectomy is described in detail as a general approach.