Mastoid exploration surgery | Dr.Pooja Gullapalli

Definition:

Mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of infected or diseased mastoid air cells located in the mastoid bone, which is part of the temporal bone of the skull situated just behind the ear. This procedure is often necessary to treat chronic ear infections, mastoiditis, and other complications that affect the mastoid bone and middle ear.

Purpose:

The primary goals of a mastoidectomy are to::

Eliminate infection from the mastoid bone and middle ear.
Prevent the spread of infection to nearby structures, including the brain.
Improve hearing if it has been affected by the disease.
Remove cholesteatoma, a noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear and mastoid.

Indications:

Mastoidectomy is typically recommended for individuals who have:

Chronic otitis media (persistent middle ear infection) that does not respond to medical treatment.
Cholesteatoma, which can cause chronic infection and damage to the ear structures.
Complications from ear infections, such as abscesses or meningitis.
Hearing loss related to mastoid disease.

Types of Mastoidectomy:

Simple (or Closed) Mastoidectomy:
- Removal of the diseased mastoid air cells while leaving the ear canal wall intact.
Radical Mastoidectomy:
- Extensive removal of the mastoid air cells, along with parts of the ear canal wall, and sometimes the eardrum and middle ear structures. This creates a common cavity between the ear canal and the mastoid.
Modified Radical Mastoidectomy:
- Similar to a radical mastoidectomy, but the eardrum and some middle ear structures are preserved to maintain some degree of hearing.
Canal Wall Up Mastoidectomy:
- The posterior ear canal wall is left intact, preserving the structure of the ear canal.
Canal Wall Down Mastoidectomy:
- The posterior ear canal wall is removed to allow better access to the mastoid air cells and middle ear space.

Procedure:

Mastoidectomy is performed under general anesthesia and typically involves the following steps:

Incision:
- An incision is made behind the ear to access the mastoid bone.
Removal of Diseased Tissue:
- Using specialized instruments, the surgeon removes the infected or diseased mastoid air cells, along with any other affected tissues.
Reconstruction:
- If necessary, the surgeon may reconstruct the middle ear structures or the eardrum to restore hearing function and improve ear structure.
Closure:
- The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied to protect the area.

Recovery:

Postoperative care includes:

Keeping the ear dry and clean.
Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
Taking prescribed medications, such as antibiotics and pain relievers.
Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any packing or dressings

As with any surgical procedure, mastoidectomy carries potential risks, including:

Infection
Bleeding
Hearing loss
Dizziness or balance problems
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Facial nerve injury
Recurrence of the disease

Outcomes:

Mastoidectomy, when performed by an experienced ENT surgeon like Dr. Pooja Gullapalli, has a high success rate in controlling infection and preventing its spread. Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms, improved ear function, and better overall health.

Conclusion:

Mastoidectomy is a critical surgical intervention for individuals suffering from chronic ear infections, mastoiditis, and cholesteatoma. Dr. Pooja Gullapalli's expertise in this advanced ENT procedure ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, leading to successful outcomes and enhanced quality of life.

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Mastoidectomy