Introduction: A common problem with canal-wall down mastoidectomy procedures is a discharging cavity. Many techniques for mastoid obliteration to reduce the cavity size have been described. Different biomaterials have been tried on the basis that they should be non-resorbable, non-reactive and integrate. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Serenocem granules, a glass ionomeric cement, as a suitable biomaterial for mastoid obliteration and to review its longterm effects.

Methods: 16 patients with chronically discharging mastoid cavities were selected for mastoid obliteration. The subsequent procedures were performed between 2001 and 2003.The two main outcome measures were the number of attendances for aural care and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI). A secondary measure was the comparison of pre- and post-operative hearing thresholds.These patient were assessed in 2006 providing a minimum of 3 years follow up. As a result of recent chance finding following late revision surgery, a further review of implanted patients was undertaken in 2015/16.

Results: The need for aural care reduced in all but one patient. There was a significant difference in the number of aural visits pre and post operation.Benefit in quality of life was assessed using the GBI. In only one patient was there a negative score. The mean values indicate that there has been a positive benefit in quality of life. Complete pure tone average results were available for 13/16 patients. In 8/13 patients the hearing was improved, as intended by additional ossiculoplasty procedures. Of importance a reduction of hearing was noted in only 5 patients, the worst of which was 7.5 dB for the 4-tone average.

Conclusions: The initial results of this technique were promising, however, the recent chance review of one of these patients showed the granules may be inducing bone lysis in. All patients have been reviewed and the results will be presented.