Reconstructive surgery in chronic otitis media. Statistical analysis of long-term results.

Success or failure of tympanoplasty depends on the following factors: (1) the anatomic and functional state of the tympanic membrane and the ossicles; (2) type, extension and activity of chronic otitis media at the time of surgery; (3) permanent restoration and drainage of the middle ear, and (4) surgical technique. In the present long-term study 440 cases of tympanoplasty have been followed up for 2-10 years. The anatomic and functional results were evaluated statistically by a computerized data processing procedure. Thus, multiple correlations between the factors influencing the anatomic and functional results could be investigated.