Mastoid Dressing in Ear Surgery: Is it Still Relevant?

• Main Authors: Rahul Naga, Tejpal Singh Bedi, Renu Rajguru, Inderdeep Singh, Saurabh Mahajan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Association of Otolaryngologists of India, West Bengal 2021-09-01
• Series: Bengal Journal of Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery
• Subjects: Tympanoplasty; Mastoidectomy; Bandages; Seroma; Hematoma
• Online Access: https://bjohns.in/journal3/index.php/bjohns/article/view/477

Introduction   Mastoid dressings are conventionally used in patients who undergo Tympanoplasty using post auricular approach. The rationale behind using a mastoid dressing is that the said dressing prevents haematoma formation and acts as a protective covering during the post-operative period. This study aims to understand the significance of mastoid dressing in patients undergoing Cortical Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty and its role in preventing post-operative wound complications and patient comfort. Materials and Methods   A total of 77 patients were enrolled in the study over a one year period and were randomised into dressing and no dressing groups with the aim of deciphering any advantage of the mastoid dressing over a smaller dressing. Results   Our data revealed no added advantage of conventional mastoid dressing over a small gauze piece dressing in terms of haematoma/seroma formation, contusion and wound dehiscence. However, there was significantly reduced patient discomfort and sleeping difficulties post-operatively in the no dressing group. Conclusion We conclude that smaller dressing is more favourable than the bulkier conventional mastoid dressings.