TYMPANIC NEURECTOMY - ITS EFFECTS ON THE SEROMUCINOUS GLANDS OF THE MIDDLE-EAR OF CATS

The effect of tympanic neurectomy on the seromucinous glands of the middle ear was evaluated experimentally in cats. The operation suppressed the secretory activity of the glands and induced their atrophy, and glandular suppression was still evident 1 year postoperatively. This work points to the possibility of employing tympanic neurectomy in the treatment of refractory cases of otitis media with effusion. The operation is easy to perform, and, theoretically, it should allow drainage of the effusion and inspection of the ossicles. However, neurectomy should be carried out as completely as possible in order to achieve optimum and long-lasting effects. © 1990 S. Karger AG, Basel.