Cartilage-perichondrial composite graft tympanoplasty in the treatment of posterior marginal and attic retraction pockets.

The atelectatic retraction pocket (ARP) has been implicated in the development of chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma. The ARP's tendency for persistence or recurrence despite treatment is a significant otologic problem. The purpose of this study is to define and discuss this clinical entity and the use of cartilage-perichondrium tympanoplasty as a safe and predictable method of treatment, reducing destructive complications while maintaining ear function. A retrospective analysis of 85 operated ears is presented.