Radical Mastoidectomy Versus Mastoid Oblitration in Pediatric Population

Paediatric cholesteatoma spread more extensively through the temporal bone than in adult as the temporal bone in children is well pneumatized. The disease in children is frequently more extensive and expanding, with more involvement of the peri-labyrinthine cells and petrous apex. It is a commonly encountered disease entity which requires prompt surgical management as early as possible. The management of cholesteatoma is solely surgical. Comparatively the pediatric population has higher rates of recurrent and residual disease, possibly due to anatomic and physiologic differences. Eustachian tube anatomy and dysfunction predisposes children to more frequent infections and retraction pockets. Thus posing a greater challenge than in adults in treating cholesteatom. The goals of surgery are to eliminate epithelial and bone disease thoroughly and prevent the recurrence, produce a dry and safe ear and to restore serviceable hearing