Retraction of the pars tensa--long-term results of surgical treatment.

Severe retraction of the pars tensa usually requires surgical treatment. Long-term follow-up of patients is essential as they may still suffer from eustachian tube dysfunction, resulting in a recurrence of the condition. Seventy-two tympanoplasties for retraction of the pars tensa (32 posterior retraction pockets and 40 completely collapsed tympanic membranes) were followed up for between 3 to 8 years. The long-term outcome of surgery for the posterior retraction pockets was favourable with at least 80% of the patients free of subsequent recurrence of the retraction pocket. The hearing gain and the post-operative hearing results were good. The surgical outcome for the completely collapsed tympanic membranes was disappointing with re-collapse in 50% of patients. Consequently, the postoperative hearing results were poor.