To describe a practical surgical approach for mastoid cavity obliteration and canal wall reconstruction using autologous bone dust and conchal cartilage applied either during primary canal wall up (CWU) surgery or in revision of prior canal wall down (CWD) mastoid cavities, with the aim of restoring a self-cleaning, waterproof ear that retained its natural acoustic resonance.

The indications, surgical technique, and follow up and imaging surveillance were described, detailing patient selection, harvesting and application of autologous materials, and the key technical steps for cavity obliteration and posterior canal wall reconstruction. The importance of preserving the ear canal’s standing wave resonance (~2000–2500 Hz) for optimal hearing was emphasized. Postoperative monitoring with non-echo planar diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) MRI was recommended at least 1.5 years after surgery to detect residual or recurrent cholesteatom.

This technique was performed successfully in 88 patients (32 males and 56 females, aged 6–80 years) across four hospitals in Metro Manila from January 2020 to July 2025. All patients had unremarkable postoperative courses and healed within three months. Among the 67 who underwent DWI MRI after 18 months, two required revision mastoidectomies with mastoid obliteration for cholesteatoma recidivism—one with residual and one with recurrent disease.

Mastoid obliteration and reconstruction using autologous bone dust and cartilage has proven to be a safe, effective and cost-efficient technique. It converts problematic open cavities into dry, self-cleaning ears suitable for swimming while preserving the acoustic benefits of a near-normal ear canal. Long-term follow-up with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) MRI is essential to ensure durable disease control.