title: Method of reconstruction or preservation of external auditory canal.
abstract: A brief summary of methods for reconstruction of the external auditory meatus for whatever reason, which have been recommended and used by a number of authors, is presented. Recurrence of the atretic problem occurs in a great percentage of individuals necessitating further attempts with an even greater failure rate. In 13 ases with this problem, including congenital agenesis and/or atresia of the external auditory canal, exostectomies, and postsurgical stenosis, I have fund that surgery with concomitant use of Merocel wicks has given a "cure rate" of better than  90%. The first patient in this group has been followed for approximately two years.
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D004424:Ear Canal / Q000601:surgery*; D004427:Ear Diseases / Q000151:congenital / Q000601:surgery*; D004431:Ear, External / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008722:Methods; D010033:Otitis Media / Q000601:surgery; D012008:Recurrence; D013201:Stapes Surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013630:Tampons, Surgical