Cholesteatoma invasion into the internal auditory canal.

Cholesteatoma invasion into the internal auditory canal (IAC) is rare and usually results in irreversible, complete hearing loss and facial paralysis on the affected side. This retrospective study examines the clinical characteristics of seven patients with cholesteatoma invading the IAC, analyzes possible routes of the cholesteatoma's extension and describes the surgical approaches used and patient outcome. Extension to the IAC was via the supralabyrinthine route in most patients.

Steroids, carbogen or placebo for sudden hearing loss: a prospective double-blind study.

There is no consensus regarding treatment modalities for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). In order to evaluate the effectiveness of steroid or carbogen inhalation therapies, a prospective double-blind placebo controlled study was designed. All 41 patients enrolled in the study had unilateral SNHL with no prior history of SNHL, otological pathological history or otoscopic findings.

Intraoperative facial nerve monitoring: a comparison between electromyography and mechanical-pressure monitoring techniques.

Objectives: To examine the hypothesis that for intraoperative facial nerve monitoring, an EMG monitor is more sensitive than a mechanical-pressure monitor. To compare the threshold sensitivity of the two facial nerve monitoring methods-mechanical-pressure versus EMG--by using them simultaneously during surgery. To assess and compare their true- and false-positive responses in otologic and neurotologic procedures.

Cochlear implantation after subtotal petrosectomies.

Among cochlear implant candidates there are patients who have abnormal middle and/or inner-ear conditions that make them unsuitable for implantation. Insertion of a foreign body may also be contraindicated in the setting of an existing or potential intracranial communication, or when the ear is prone to infection. Five patients presented with such unfavorable conditions.