Mastoid obliteration with S53P4 bioactive glass after canal wall down mastoidectomy: Preliminary results

Background: Bioactive glass (S53P4), abbreviated BG, currently seems to be the best material for reconstructing the posterior wall of the auditory canal and obliterating the postoperative cavity. Purpose: The aim of the study was to report preliminary results of otosurgery involving obliteration of the mastoid cavity after canal wall down mastoidectomy. Methods: 11 adult patients who had had a history of chronic otitis media with cholesteatoma in one or both ears and previous canal wall down mastoidectomy. The duration of the follow-up was 6 months, with routine visits after 7 days, then 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. The patient's medical history, noting other diseases potentially affecting the healing process, was analyzed. Healing, audiometric results, reduction of the volume of the cavity after surgery, and reduction of bacterial flora growth were assessed. Results: There was not worsening in the audiological evaluation. Healing period was uneventful. There was a reduction in volume of the postoperative cavity, no development of pathological flora, and no recurrence of cholesteatoma. Conclusion: Obliteration of the mastoid process with S53P4 bioactive glass is a safe and effective method of treatment. Such a procedure should be considered as a treatment for patients after canal wall down surgery (CWD).