Efficacy of Topical Medications in Mastoid Cavity Care Following Canal Wall Down Mastoidectomy. (A Retrospective Cohort Study)

Postoperative management of mastoid cavities after canal wall down (CWD) mastoidectomy remains challenging due to persistent otorrhea, infection, and delayed healing. Topical medications are widely used, but comparative data on their efficacy are limited. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes of different topical medications in patients with mastoid cavities following CWD mastoidectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: =20). Primary outcomes were resolution of otorrhea and epithelialization time. Secondary outcomes included complications and microbial resistance. RESULTS: Combination therapy (quinolone antibiotic + antiseptic) achieved the highest otorrhea resolution rate (95%) and shortest epithelialization time (6.2±1.8 weeks). Antifungal agents had the lowest efficacy (68% resolution). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (32%) and Staphylococcus aureus (24%) were predominant pathogens, with quinolone antibiotic resistance observed in 18%. CONCLUSION: Combination topical therapy optimizes mastoid cavity healing, while antifungal agents should be reserved for confirmed fungal infections.