Microear Surgery

Otology microear surgery refers to advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedures performed under a microscope to treat delicate structures of the ear. These surgeries aim to restore hearing, improve ear function, and manage conditions affecting the outer, middle, or inner ear while minimizing tissue damage and promoting faster recovery.

Causes

Several ear disorders may require microear surgery, including chronic ear infections (chronic otitis media), cholesteatoma (abnormal skin growth in the middle ear), perforated eardrum, otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear), ear trauma, and certain congenital defects. Prolonged untreated ear infections and repeated perforations can damage the ossicles (tiny hearing bones), leading to hearing loss.

Symptoms

Patients needing otology microear surgery may experience hearing loss, persistent ear discharge, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness or balance issues, recurrent ear pain, and difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. In some cases, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, or ear bleeding may also occur, indicating chronic or severe ear disease.

Treatment

Microear surgery is performed using an operating microscope for high precision. Common procedures include myringoplasty (eardrum repair), tympanoplasty (middle ear reconstruction), ossiculoplasty (repair or replacement of hearing bones), and stapedectomy (for otosclerosis). The surgeon uses specialized fine instruments to remove diseased tissue, repair damaged structures, and restore normal ear anatomy. Most surgeries are done under general or local anesthesia, with minimal scarring and quicker healing.

Post-surgery, patients are advised to avoid water entry into the ear, refrain from strenuous activities, and attend follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. When performed timely, otology microear surgery can significantly improve hearing, reduce infections, and enhance quality of life.