Abstract 1. 1. As is the case in most neoplasms, early treatment of an adequate degree is paramount in the permanent control of primary tumors of the external ear. 2. 2. This treatment in the past has been in the form of radiotherapy and surgery, and a study of this material suggests that surgery, when generously performed, is superior in terms of achieving permanent local control. 3. 3. The low incidence of lymph node metastases does not warrant the application of prophylactic neck dissection. 4. 4. Tumors involving the ear canal have an even greater propensity for local recurrence and for this reason demand an even more aggressive initial approach. 5. 5. The factor of cosmetic effect, a deterrent to the application of the above mentioned principles of treatment, must be for the most part disregarded if initial, permanent control of these tumors is to be accomplished.