Background and Objectives : With modern endoscopes, the mastoidectomized cavity and the middle ear can be visualized with a minimally invasive technique. The author employed endoscopes in reoperation of the middle ear and analyzed the results to
determine whether it can replace a conventional procedure. Materials and Methods : Ten ears undergoing endoscopic revision procedures had conventional canal wall up tympanomastoidectomies performed 6-15 months previously for chronic otitis media
or
cholesteatoma. The endoscopes were introduced through a postauricular hole to inspect the mastoid cavity, attic, and the tympanum systematically. A tympanomeatal flap was elevated to inspect the posterior tympanum and to reconstruct the ossicular
chain.
Results : The mastoid cavity, attic, and the tympanum were directly visualized with endoscopes in 9 cases. Ossiculoplasties were performed with incus in 4 cases, with TORP in 3 cases, and with PORP in 2 cases. There was an epithelial pearl in
the
facial recess which was removed endoscopically. The intraoperative and postoperative courses were uneventful in all cases. The postoperative hearing results were favorable in the majority of the cases. Conclusion : Endoscopic revision surgeries
of
the
middle ear were successfully performed in 9 out of 10 ears. With the employment of endoscopes, revision surgery of the middle ear can be converted into a minimally invasive one.
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