Endaural meatoplasty: the Whipps Cross technique

J Laryngol Otol. 2011 Jan;125(1):78-81. doi: 10.1017/S0022215110001842. Epub 2010 Sep 13.

Abstract

Objective: To describe our technique of endaural meatoplasty for mastoid surgery, and to publish an online video demonstration.

Method: After the endaural incision, a skin incision is accurately marked over the anterior conchal bowl, identified by pushing the anti-helix anteriorly. This should meet the line of the endaural incision superiorly and extend inferiorly to the lower anterior edge of the conchal cartilage. After performing the incision, a segment of conchal cartilage is removed. The soft tissue meatoplasty is facilitated by resecting a triangular segment of skin and underlying soft tissue medial to the conchal incision (on which it is based). The free edges are closed with absorbable sutures after the (attico)mastoidectomy.

Results: We have used this method on 64 patients over the past two years. Satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes were achieved in all.

Conclusion: Our technique is simple, easy to learn, quick and effective in helping to achieve our goal of a dry mastoid cavity with an adequate meatoplasty.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Constriction, Pathologic / surgery
  • Ear, External / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Mastoid / surgery*
  • Otologic Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Treatment Outcome