Surgical management of otitis media in pet rabbits by partial ear canal ablation without bulla osteotomy: a retrospective study of 26 cases.

Objective: To determine the clinical outcomes associated with lateral wall resection of the external auditory canal by partial ear canal ablation (PECA) without bulla osteotomy in rabbits and compare our results with other techniques described in the literature.

Methods: This was a retrospective study based on medical records from 2021 to 2023 of rabbits with otitis media treated surgically with PECA. The surgical technique, outcomes, follow-up, complications, and potential risk factors were analyzed.

Results: 26 rabbits with otitis media were included in this study. All underwent a PECA procedure and were monitored for a minimum of 3 months postoperatively. All rabbits survived the procedure. The main preoperative clinical signs included vestibular syndrome (46%), facial paresis (35%), and auricular stenosis (27%). Postoperative clinical signs resolved in 92% of cases. Two rabbits showed persistent vestibular syndrome. The major complication rate was 7%, and the minor complication rate was 27%. Bacterial culture was performed in 15 cases and positive in 40% (6 of 15) of rabbits, with Staphylococcus aureus identified in 50% of the positive cases.

Conclusions: PECA without bulla osteotomy was associated with favorable clinical outcomes in most rabbits with otitis media. The procedure resulted in resolution of clinical signs in the majority of cases, with a low rate of major complications. Persistent neurological deficits occurred in a small proportion of patients, highlighting the need for careful case selection and owner counseling.

Clinical relevance: PECA without bulla osteotomy may be an effective therapeutic option for rabbits with otitis media.