Long-term results of surgery for chronic granulating otitis.

The late results of planned one-stage procedures in 229 ears with chronic granulating otitis were analyzed, and the justification for two-stage procedures is discussed. All ears were discharging despite intensive preoperative treatment, and all had severe mucosal pathology. The total re-perforation rate was 12%. Five per cent were closed at re-operation, so that at the last follow-up perforations were found in 7% of the ears. The average observation period was 11 years (range, three to 20 years). After one operation, 91% of the ears were dry, and after the re-operations, 98% of the ears were dry. The re-operation rate was 16%. Because of these results obtained by planned one-stage procedures, the authors do not recommend two-stage procedures in non-cholesteatomatous conditions. The authors furthermore conclude that canal-up mastoidectomy is preferable in non-cholesteatomatous granulating otitis.