During canal wall down mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma, the surgeon creates a 'meatoplasty.' The primary purpose of this step is to:
- A To facilitate adequate ventilation and aeration of the mastoid cavity, reducing granulation tissue formation ✓
- B To improve cosmetic appearance of the external ear
- C To expose the facial nerve for decompression
- D To allow placement of a bone-anchored hearing aid fixture
Correct answer: A. To facilitate adequate ventilation and aeration of the mastoid cavity, reducing granulation tissue formation
Explanation
Meatoplasty (enlargement of the external auditory meatus) is performed alongside canal wall down mastoidectomy to ensure the resulting open mastoid cavity is adequately ventilated and can be cleaned. Without a sufficiently wide meatus, the cavity becomes moist, develops granulations, and accumulates debris — predisposing to re-infection, granulation tissue, and possible recurrence. Good aeration and self-cleansing ability are the primary functional goals. It also facilitates postoperative inspection and follow-up.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.