Introduction: It is an established practice to use non-EPI DWI MRI scans to detect the presence of cholesteatoma post operatively. In the present era of Covid-19 where routine surgery to remove cholesteatoma has been suspended resulting in potentially unprecedented demands on the service, a review of serial MRI scans performed over a 7 year period was undertaken to determine the rate of growth of cholesteatoma. Materials and methods: A retrospective longitudinal study identified 24 middle ear cholesteatomas in 17 patients with serial non-EPI DWI MRI scans (having excluded those having surgical intervention between scans) for a median period of 33 months (range of 6-91 months). Cholesteatomas were measured by the first author and by the consultant radiologist. Results: Of 24 cholesteatomas, 1 resolved completely, 5 reduced, 6 stayed the same size, 4 grew slowly and 8 grew significantly. Conclusion: Non-EPI DWI MRI scans to determine cholesteatoma growth in asymptomatic ears is useful in triaging patients in the Covid-19 era. Key words: Cholesteatoma MRI scans covid-19

Introduction: The creation of the “open cavity” to clear cholesteatoma results in significant morbidity in over a third of patients. Various biological and non-biological materials have been used to reduce or obliterated these mastoid cavities. Materials and Methods: This study reports the technique and results of using hydroxyapatite granules with a pericranial flap to obliterate troublesome cavities. Results: 50 mastoid obliterations were performed in 48 patients. 94% no longer required water precautions 2 months post-operatively and may use conventional hearing aids. Discussion: This technique improves patients’ quality of life and can enable discharge of patients previously reliant on ENT services.