Endaural microscopic approach versus endoscopic transcanal approach in treatment of attic cholesteatomas

Abstract

PurposeCompare the audiological results and postoperative outcomes of the endoscopic approach versus the endaural microscopic approach for treatment of attic cholesteatomas, using a randomized prospective model. Materials and methodsEighty patients were consecutively enrolled in the study and randomized into two groups of treatment of 40 patients: Group A –tympanoplasty with a microscopic endaural approach; Group B –tympanoplasty with an exclusive trans-meatal endoscopic approach. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Hearing was assessed preoperatively and at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after surgery in both groups. ResultsThere were no differences in the parameters analyzed (CT findings, patient age, disease duration, intraoperative cholesteatoma characteristics,) between the group A and B patients. No statistical difference between the two groups regarding hearing improvement, abnormal taste sensation, dizziness, post-operative pain and healing times emerged. Graft success rate was 94.5 % and 92.1 % for MES and ESS respectively. ConclusionBoth microscopic and exclusively endoscopic endaural approaches offer similar and excellent results in the surgical treatment of attic cholesteatomas.