Do you also often get earaches and pus ? Even with medication, sometimes these ear infections don't get better, right? Maybe your doctor has said, "You need to do a small operation behind the ear." That's what we call a mastoidectomy. Don't be scared when you hear this name. In this article, we will talk very simply about what it is, why it is done, and whether there is anything to be afraid of.
Simply put, what is Mastoidectomy?
A mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure that removes an infection from the bone behind your ear. This bone is called the mastoid bone. It has a honeycomb-like structure, with lots of tiny air-filled cavities inside.
Because the mastoid bone is connected to our middle ear, infections in the middle ear can sometimes spread into the cavity of this bone. When a bacterial infection occurs in this way, we call it mastoiditis . So the main goal of the mastoidectomy surgery is to completely remove this infection and keep the ear dry and safe. Also, to prevent serious complications and hearing damage that may occur due to this infection in the future.
In what cases does a doctor recommend this surgery?
A doctor usually recommends this surgery for several reasons.
- If you have mastoiditis and the antibiotics you are given are not helping.
- If you have chronic mastoiditis that occurs frequently.
This surgery can also prevent dangerous complications that can occur due to mastoiditis. For example:
- Meningitis: This is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Brain abscess: The formation of an infected, pus-filled abscess inside the brain.
- Blood clots in the blood vessels of the brain.
The main goal of this surgery is to control the infection before it progresses to such serious conditions.
Additionally, if you have a cholesteatoma , a lump-like condition in which skin cells form abnormally deep inside the ear, this surgery is also done to remove it. Mastoidectomy is also sometimes performed to make room for a cochlear implant , a small electronic device that provides hearing.
Simply put, if you have frequent ear infections or complications, this surgery may be the best solution for you. Your doctor will decide whether this surgery is right for you based on your medical history and other factors.
Are there types of mastoidectomy surgery?
Yes, there are several main types of this surgery. Some are more complex than others. Your doctor will choose the most appropriate type based on the severity of your condition.
| Type of surgery | What are you doing? (Description) |
|---|---|
| Simple Mastoidectomy | The doctor opens the mastoid bone and removes only the infected area. |
| Canal Wall Up Mastoidectomy | A little more bone is removed than in a simple mastoidectomy because it is necessary to reach the middle ear. |
| Canal Wall Down (Radical) Mastoidectomy | This surgery is performed if the ear canal has been severely damaged by the infection. It may be necessary to completely remove the eardrum and middle ear structures. |
| Modified Radical Mastoidectomy | It's a little different than radical surgery. Here, some of the bones in the middle ear are left intact and the eardrum is reconstructed. |
The type of surgery recommended for you will depend on factors such as the structure of your ear, the extent of the infection, the risk to your hearing or balance, and your ability to return to the clinic after surgery.
What are the risks of this surgery?
As with any surgery, mastoidectomy carries some risks. However, these are rare. Possible complications include:
- Dizziness
- Slight hearing loss
- Changes in taste sensation on the tongue
- Recurrence of infection
- Hearing a ringing in the ears (Tinnitus)
- Numbness or weakness of part of the face due to damage to a facial nerve
- Leakage of fluid around the brain and spinal cord
Your doctor will discuss these risks with you in detail before surgery.
How long does it take to recover after surgery?
The recovery process after a mastoidectomy is usually simple. You will not feel any pain during the surgery, as you will be under general anesthesia. However, you may experience some discomfort and pain after the surgery.
You will probably have to stay in the hospital overnight. You will have a few stitches and a bandage behind your ear. You may also have a small rubber tube inserted to stop fluid from collecting in the wound. It is normal to feel a heaviness or tightness inside your ear.
After you go home, you should follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
- Keep the wound dry. Do not let water get into the ear.
- Avoid picking your nose for about two weeks.
- When sleeping, sleep on the side opposite to the side where the surgery was performed.
- This is very important: If you feel like sneezing, open your mouth and let it out. Don't hold your sneeze in. Doing so can increase the pressure inside your ear and cause damage.
The stitches will dissolve on their own over time. It can take about 6 to 12 weeks to fully heal. However, most people can return to their normal activities (work, school) within a week or two.
When should I see the doctor again?
If you have any problems after surgery or develop any of the following symptoms, you should inform your doctor immediately . You may be referred to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
| Symptoms to watch out for |
|---|
| Fever (over 100.5°F or 38°C) |
| Excessive bleeding or other fluid from the suture site |
| Sudden loss of hearing |
| Dizziness or Vertigo |
| Facial weakness or a feeling of lifelessness |
Take-Home Message
- Mastoidectomy is a very important surgery for chronic or severe ear infections (mastoiditis). There is no need to be afraid of this.
- This surgery can prevent serious complications such as brain fever.
- It is very important to follow medical advice exactly during the recovery period, especially instructions about things like sneezing.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms after surgery, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
- The ultimate goal of all this is to give you a healthy, dry, and protected ear.
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