Endaural meatoplasty: the Whipps Cross technique

Abstract

AbstractObjective: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.