The chronically or intermittently discharging mastoid cavity seems to be a problem without solution at times and has discouraged some from advising or undertaking mastoid surgery. It is a rare otologist who does not have at least a few problem cases of this type that have resisted all forms of therapy, including curettage and skin grafting. It is the purpose of this paper to point out the underlying factors which tend to prolong the infection and to outline the dry (powder) treatment of infected mastoid cavities.
Although many factors enter into any infection, there are three main factors underlying all mastoid cavity infections:
Moisture
Presence of opportunists (bacteria and fungi)
Debris and diseased tissue
Many bacteriocidal and fungicidal ear drops have been recommended for the treatment of cavity infections. Usually these medications are very effective in reducing the amount and in controlling the odor of the discharge.