New Procedure Battles Persistent Ear Infections
Surgeons have developed a procedure called a mastoidectomy to tackle persistent ear infections and related complications. This operation involves removing diseased mastoid air cells, located behind the ear in the skull.
A mastoidectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon accesses the mastoid bone through a cut behind the ear. The procedure aims to treat conditions like chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma, or other infections that resist conservative treatment. It can help prevent or treat complications such as deafness, vertigo, facial paralysis, meningitis, labyrinthitis, and ongoing ear drainage.
There are different types of mastoidectomy, including simple, radical, and modified radical, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient. In some cases, a mastoidectomy may also be performed to insert a cochlear implant for individuals with profound deafness or severe hearing loss.
Post-surgery, patients can expect to have bandages and stitches, and may experience headache, discomfort, and numbness. Recovery involves caring for the wound, avoiding strenuous activity, and following the doctor's instructions. While rare, potential complications include facial nerve paralysis, sensorineural hearing loss, dizziness, change in taste, and tinnitus.
