We report a 46-year-old man with bacterial meningitis and left cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) otorrhea associated with inner ear malformation (common cavity type). Left tympanotomy showed granulation over the stapes and water-like otorrhea, and the stapes was separated from the thickened incus long arm. A partial defect was present in the stapes foot plate, and removal of the stapes led to pronounced leakage of CSF. We therefore packed the vestibule with fascia and small pieces of auricular cartilage tightly and then positioned the cap of the vestibule with fascia and fibrin glue. He has remained well and free from meningitic symptoms for two years after the operation. Our case indicates that the occlusion of the vestibule with fascia and auricular cartilage should be considered even in cases without a history of meningitis.
