Abstract
Postoperative changes and their timing with regard to the operation in 780 chronic ears followed yearly for a period of 5–16 years and operated on by the Palva method are presented. The main part of postoperative cavitations, tympanal adhesive changes, infections, cholesteatomas and audiological changes were found within five years, but a remarkable number after a period of five years from the operation. Yearly check-ups of operated ears at an Out-Patient Department are recommended in routine cases for 5–10 years and in cases of cholesteatoma or other special cases for 10–15 years.