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89
main A.C. current. It. is a valuable agent in the treatment of
deafness. In certain nasal conditions such as congestive rhinitis
and sinusitis Wells' Iodine Vapour inhalation is regularly used.
For the detection and treatment of infection and pus in
the nasal sinuses the Proetz Displacement method has been
constantly employed. This is a great advance in the easy, early
and certain detection of diseased sinuses. Such conditions are
much more frequent in children than was formerly believed and
their early detection and treatment are vitally important, firstly,
in the relief from these conditions themselves and secondly,
their removal as a complication of or contributory factor in, or
precursor of disease in neighbouring regions, such as the middle
ear, nose or throat or even the brain. During the year many
cases were treated by and derived great benefit from
displacement.
One'of the main objects always in view in the practice of
the Aural Clinic is the detection, prevention and treatment of
incipient deafness in young children. Any factors likely to cause
or be contributory to impaired hearing are sought out and
removed. We are confident that it is along these lines the best
results are to be obtained in reducing he high percentage of
impaired hearing with its resultant disabilities found among the
adult population.
A strictly conservative attitude is maintained towards the
removal of tonsils. It is now becoming more and more evident
that this operation has been performed far too casually and
unnecessarily, and with no apparent benefit to the patient. A
thorough, detailed examination is made of every case "referred"
for operation. The " history " as regards previous throat
infections, nasal condition and sinuses are examined, the hearing
taken and general health considered. Every case submitted for
operation is seen in consultation with the Medical Officer of
Health, and before operation is decided on a definite pathological
" history " and condition must be present, which is not
likely to yield to conservative treatment.
We have found no ill effects from the limitation of
operations. On the contrary, there has been a steady decline
in the incidence of otitis media and their " after effects " which