Study of Mastoid Antral Changes in Tubotympanic Chronic Supportive Otitis Media

Abstract

Background: Study of mastoid antrum findings in tubotympanic chronic suppurative otitis media Objectives: To study mastoid antrum findings in tubotympanic CSOM and to determine predictors for performing antrostomy. Methodology: 71 patients with tubotympanic CSQM were selected from OPD and IPD. All patients were subjected to investigations like X—ray mastoid (Schuller’s View), pure tone audiometry and Otoendoscopy. All patients were subjected to mastoid exploration (cortical mastoidectomy or antrostomy) with tympanoplasty. Pre-Operative findings on basis of history, examination and investigations were noted along with intra-operative findings of middle ear and mastoid antrum. Findings were tabulated and statistical tests were applied to determine significant predictors. Results: Mastoid antrum was found to be diseased in 21 patients with pathological findings like mucopus, granulations etc. Recurrent URTI, mastoid pneumatization pattern, pre operative middle ear mucosal status on otoendoscopy, degree of hearing loss and ossicular status were significantly associated with diseased antrum (P-value<0.05). Conclusion: Disease can be found in mastoid antrum in tubotympanic CSOM. Mastoid exploration in form of antrostomy should be done in all cases where certain predictors are present. The predictors for performing antrostomy in tubotympanic disease are presence of recurrent URTI on history, sclerotic mastoid on x—ray mastoid (Schuller’s View), unhealthy middle ear mucosa on otoendoscopy, moderate and moderately severe hearing loss on pure tone audiometry and intra-operative ossicular necrosis and immobility.