Exploratory tympanotomy revisited.

The history of exploratory tympanotomy is somewhat obscure. Methods and findings of exploratory tympanotomy were described and assessed for unexplained conductive and occasional sensorineural hearing losses. Of 316 recent cases positive findings leading to diagnosis and therapy occurred in all 250 cases of conductive hearing losses and in 43 of 63 cases of sensorineural hearing losses. In decreasing order of occurrence findings were sequelae of otitis media, otosclerosis, oval and round window changes including perilymph leakage, congenital and traumatic fixation and disarticulation of ossicles. These observations and indications are discussed.