[Incidence of "recurrences" following surgical removal of ear canal exostoses].

A clinical review of 55 patients, who underwent an operative removal of exostosis of the external ear canal during the last 10 years, brought us to two main conclusions. While there are no true recurrences, it is possible in cases of continuous exposure to cold water that in regions which were not touched by the first operations new exostosis will occur. The drilling and sucking noise during the operative procedure might cause an inner ear damage, as the sound transmission is unimpeded. Intraoperative protective measures are recommended.