Evolution of hospital discharge rates due to middle ear cholesteatoma in the period 2020 to 2023 in Chile
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52611/confluencia.2026.1733Keywords:
Cholesteatoma, Middle ear, Otolaryngology, Epidemiology, Chile, HospitalizationAbstract
Introduction: Bronchus middle ear cholesteatoma is an invasive cystic lesion characterized by the accumulation of desquamated keratin and debris. In Chile the epidemiology of this condition remains unclear. Objective: To calculate the hospital discharge rate for middle ear cholesteatoma during the period 2020-2023 in Chile. Methodology: An observational, descriptive, longitudinal and retrospective study was conducted on the hospital discharge rate for middle ear cholesteatoma in the total population, according to sex, age, and length of hospital stay. Scientific ethics committee approval was not required. Result: A total of 1.359 cases were analyzed, determining an hospital discharge rate of 1,93 cases per 100.000 inhabitants during the study period, with an increasing trend over the years studied. A predominance in young males up to 19 years of age was observed, whereas from 45 years onward, females predominated. The mean length of hospital stay was 1,82 days. Discussion: The increase in hospital discharge rate may be attributed to the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the redistribution of healthcare resources. This may also have influenced the differences in rates between sexes. The predominance of young males and older females may be explained by the higher incidence of congenital cholesteatoma and Eustachian tube dysfunction, respectively. Finally, the longer hospital stay in older individuals may be explained by the higher prevalence of comorbidities. Conclusion: A trend similar to that observed in other countries is presented, suggesting that anatomical and physiological factors influence the disease. Further studies are required to establish appropriate management strategies.
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