A new theory interprets the development of a retraction pocket as a natural self-healing process

ConclusionsA new hypothesis interprets the origin of a retraction pocket —the precursor of a cholesteatoma—as a natural attempt by the body to cure an underlying inflammation in a cavity. Analogous phenomena exist, e.g. the migration of the omentum towards a local inflammation in the abdomen. This idea, which is supported by the findings in our 209 second-look surger ies, is the first explanation of the origin of retraction pockets that is compatible with the various characteristics of original or recurrent cholesteatoma. A prophylaxis against a recurrent cholesteatoma might be attained by securing free drainage of the mucosa into the tubal orifice with the use of thin silicone foils in an attempt to prevent any granulation in the middle ear cleft, similar to the principles of modern r...

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2QHOhJ1