Operations on the middle ear and mastoid.

From 1953 to 1957, inclusive, 373 patients were operated on for chronic mastoid disease at the Mayo Clinic. Mainly because of the extensive use of magnifying glasses and microscopes, through these years, closer attention has been given to the preservation or improvement of hearing by meticulous procedures on the structures of the middle ear and the use of skin grafts. It is stressed, however, that it is extremely important to eradicate the underlying disease. Illustrative cases to represent different types of procedures are presented. The author recommends closer attention to the condition of the round window in the future.