Recurrent cholesteatoma in combined approach tympanoplasty.

Forty-six ears--13 cholesteatoma ears and 33 non-cholesteatoma ears--with preoperative poor Eustachian tube function and a healed tympanic membrane more than 12 months after surgery were investigated. It was found that retractions occurred independent of previous cholesteatoma or surgical procedure. Also, retractions were associated with intratympanic negative air pressure, indicating dysfunction of the Eustachian tube.