Introduction: Otorhinolaryngology began to develop as an independent specialty in the mid-19th century. Middle ear surgery, and particularly mastoidectomy, is one of the cornerstones of the specialty. Historical evidence suggests that mastoidectomy may have been practiced since antiquity. The purpose of this review is to present the knowledge we have regarding the practice of mastoidectomy in ancient times.

System and Methods: A non-systematic literature review was conducted.

Results: There is evidence that otitis media, and its related complications have been documented since ancient times. In addition, there is proof that mastoidectomy was practiced not only in ancient Egypt and Greece, but even in earlier times.

Discussion: The surgical treatment of otitis media does nto appear to be a modern innovation. Recent findings show that middle ear surgery could be practiced as early as the Neolithic era.

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