Mastoid and middle ear cavity obliteration for control of otitis media.

Total soft tissue obliteration of the mastoid-middle ear cavity and primary closure of the external auditory meatus were employed in six patients to control chronic suppurative otitis media. Previously, all these patients had unsuccessful surgery and all but one had profound loss of cochlear function. Thorough removal of cholesteatoma, granulation tissue, and ear canal skin is necessary before total obliteration can be performed safely. Wound healing was complete by one to two weeks postoperatively and all patients have been asymptomatic for two to seven years.