A second-look tympanoplasty ('second-stage surgery') after a combined approach tympanoplasty for cholesteatoma is typically scheduled after how many months?

• A 1–3 months
• B 6–9 months
• C 12–18 months ✓
• D 24–36 months

Explanation

In combined approach tympanoplasty (CAT/canal wall up procedure), a second-stage operation is performed 12–18 months after the primary surgery. This interval allows any residual cholesteatoma not visualised at first surgery to become clinically apparent (as a pearl) and facilitates ossicular chain reconstruction with a stable middle ear. The 12–18 month window balances detection of residual disease with allowing adequate healing before reconstruction.

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.