Mastoid Pneumatization in Chronic Otitis Media

THE PROBLEM of pneumatization of the mastoid process in chronic otitis media has assumed new importance in connection with the development of operative methods of improving hearing. The classic theory of Wittmaack 1 and his school, according to which inhibited pneumatization of the air cells of the mastoid process or its sclerotization is a sequel of otitis media in inflancy, has had to be modified in the light of later observations. Albrecht 2 and Schwarz 3 were of the opinion that pneumatization of the air cells of the mastoid process is inhibited only in cases of constitutionally weak mucous membrane. In the current discussion on the problem of pneumatization of the mastoid process, Tumarkin 4-6 represents the standpoint of the school of Wittmaack, while Diamant 7,8 adduces evidence that the extent of the air cell system of the mastoid process is a hereditary characteristic which does not change after birth.