Contemporary Management of the Neurotologic Complications of Chronic Otitis Media

Mitchell Schwaber, Vanderbilt University (Nashville, Tenn), Miles Pensak, University of Cincinnati, and Loren Bartels, University of South Florida (Tampa), have reviewed the neurotologic complications of chronic otitis media at three university centers. This paper, presented Jan 15, 1988, at the Southern Section meeting of the Triological Society, Birmingham, Ala, emphasizes that earlier recognition and treatment of these problems has often not occurred in spite of the development of sophisticated diagnostic imaging techniques. This is attributed to the widespread use of newer broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, which has decreased the prevalence and altered the clinical presentations of these complications. This paper presents 12 representative cases and considers the varied presentations, current diagnostic techniques (including the newer imaging studies), and appropriate surgical and medical treatment methods emphasizing concomitant use of newer antibiotics. Comment. —The current management of neurotologic complications of otitis media is a timely subject that merits consideration by all otolaryngologists. Additional