View report page

253
IONIZATION CLINIC.
I am indebted to Dr. Watson for the particulars of this Clinic.
A review of the work of this Clinic during the year 1932
shows that only nine new cases were subjected to ionization.
Several factors contributed to the reduction in the number
ionized: (1) only 79 new cases were seen, as compared with 136
in 1931; (2) comparatively few of the active cases seen for the first
time were cases of uncomplicated tympanic sepsis—only 8, or 31
per cent, of the active cases, as against 26, or 43 per cent, in 1931;
(3) a stricter selection of cases for ionization : experience of the
type of case likely to benefit by ionization influences one's decision
as to treatment and restricts the number given ionization; (4) a
greater number of cases coming for examination for the first time
were inactive—59 per cent, as against 42 per cent, in 1931.
In consequence, this report refers in the main to old cases
attending in previous years and followed up, if necessary, at the
end of the year. The ideal of calling up old cases for re-examination
has not yet been attained but, in spite of a reduced number
of sessions, it has been possible to keep the waiting list within
bounds owing to the reduction in the number of reported cases.
In spite of the falling off in the number ionized the Clinic
continues to fulfil a most useful purpose as a centre for examination
and classification of oases with, if necessary, either treatment
at the Clinic or reference to hospital. It would be regrettable to
return to the old unsatisfactory treatment of all cases of otorrhoea
with drops, regardless of the pathology of the case.
Arrangements have been made for the reference to Croydon
General Hospital of special cases for opinion and, if necessary,
treatment. This arrangement has proved most useful and has
resulted in operative treatment being readily obtained in those
cases requiring it, whereas hitherto the facilities were so difficu"
to obtain that the operation was often postponed indefinitely. I'
is gratifying to be able to record that out of 27 cases referred to
Croydon General Hospital 25 are known to have attended.
The Table showing the results of ionization includes all cases
from the inoeption of the Clinic to the end of 1932. The percentage
of "dry" cases is remarkably similar to those shown in
previous years and is probablv as good as can be expected when
no rigid choice is made in those ionized. As has been pointed