Mastoid Dressing in Ear Surgery: Is it Still Relevant?

Introduction Mastoid dressings are conventionally used in patients who undergo Tympanoplasty using post auricular approach. The rationale behind using a mastoid dressing is that the said dressing prevents haematoma formation and acts as a protective covering during the post-operative period. This study aims to understand the significance of mastoid dressing in patients undergoing Cortical Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty and its role in preventing post-operative wound complications and patient comfort. Materials and Methods A total of 77 patients were enrolled in the study over a one year period and were randomised into dressing and no dressing groups with the aim of deciphering any advantage of the mastoid dressing over a smaller dressing. Results Our data revealed no added advantage of conventional mastoid dressing over a small gauze piece dressing in terms of haematoma/seroma formation, contusion and wound dehiscence. However, there was significantly reduced patient discomfort and sleeping difficulties post-operatively in the no dressing group. Conclusion We conclude that smaller dressing is more favourable than the bulkier conventional mastoid dressings.