Which of the following structures is removed during a radical mastoidectomy but deliberately preserved during a modified radical (canal wall down) mastoidectomy?
- A Handle of the malleus with the tympanic membrane remnant ✓
- B Posterior meatal wall
- C Bridge between the attic and antrum
- D Mucosa of the middle ear
Correct answer: A. Handle of the malleus with the tympanic membrane remnant
Explanation
In a radical mastoidectomy the tympanic membrane remnant along with the malleus and incus is removed and the middle ear is exteriorised, converting it into part of the mastoid cavity with no attempt at hearing preservation. In the modified radical operation these structures are retained so that the middle ear can be reconstructed for hearing. The posterior canal wall and the bridge are removed in both procedures, so they do not discriminate between them.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.