| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2010 | Volume
: 9
| Issue : 4 | Page : 218-221 |
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Otology practice in a Nigerian tertiary health institution: A 10-year review
AD Salisu
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Bayero University/Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
Correspondence Address:
A D Salisu
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano
Nigeria
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/1596-3519.70958
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Background : The practice of otology in developing countries has remained unsatisfactory. The aim of this study is to describe the practice in a tertiary health institution with a view to articulate strategies for improvement.
Materials and Method : This a retrospective study of patients with otology problems, who attended Ear, Nose and Throat clinic of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, over a 10-year period (1997-2007). Case notes were retrieved and studied.
Results : Otologic conditions accounted for 56.3% of the 8070 clinic visits. The most frequent condition seen was chronic otitis media (25.4%). Sensorineural hearing loss (mostly preventable) accounted for 16%. Other cases included wax impaction (7.5%) and foreign body in ear (7.3%). Modern diagnostic and operative equipment were lacking. Operative surgery was offered to 4% of cases of chronic suppurative otitis media and 72% of patients needing hearing aid could not afford one. There was no middle ear reconstructive or inner ear operation in the 10-year period.
Conclusion : A significant number of patients are in need of otology services. These services are inadequate presently. Concerted effort should be geared toward strengthening preventive ear health, training and re-training, procurement of relevant diagnostic and operative equipment. |
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