Cholesteatoma and Its Treatment (Chronic Ear Infection)
Cholesteatoma is a tissue disorder that develops in the middle ear and, if left untreated, can lead to severe hearing loss and infections. It often results from chronic ear infections.
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Why Does Cholesteatoma Require Surgery?
Cholesteatoma is an inflammatory, growing mass or cyst that forms due to an accumulation of abnormal skin cells in the middle ear or mastoid bone. This accumulation can damage the middle ear and surrounding bone tissue, leading to severe complications if untreated.
Reasons for Surgery:
- Destructive Growth: As cholesteatoma grows, it can damage the structures in the middle ear, leading to hearing loss, dizziness, and facial nerve damage.
- Inflammation and Infection: Cholesteatoma can cause recurrent ear infections. If these infections are not controlled, they may lead to serious complications such as meningitis.
- Hearing Loss: Cholesteatoma can damage the ossicles, which are part of the hearing mechanism, resulting in hearing loss. Surgery aims to protect or repair these structures.
- Facial Nerve Paralysis: Cholesteatoma growth can compress the facial nerve, causing facial paralysis, which can be prevented or treated with surgery.
- Risk of Brain Infection: If left untreated, cholesteatoma may erode bone structures and spread to areas near brain tissue, which can be life-threatening.
Surgery aims to completely remove the cholesteatoma and repair any damaged structures. If untreated, cholesteatoma can cause permanent hearing loss and other serious health issues, so surgery is typically required.
What Are the Risks of Surgery?
Possible complications include anesthesia-related risks, hearing loss, dizziness, and facial nerve damage.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
Surgery usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the cholesteatoma.
What Is the Recovery Process Like After Surgery?
The recovery process after cholesteatoma surgery depends on the patient’s overall health, the scope of the surgery, and the procedures performed during surgery. Generally, the recovery process proceeds as follows:
First Few Days:
- Hospital Discharge: Most patients are discharged on the day of surgery or the day after. Some may stay in the hospital overnight for observation.
- Pain and Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain and discomfort may be felt post-surgery. The doctor will prescribe pain relievers to manage this.
- Dizziness and Balance Issues: Patients may experience dizziness and balance issues, especially if middle ear structures were involved. These symptoms usually subside within a few days.
First Week:
- Rest: Patients are advised to rest during the first week and avoid strenuous activities. Refraining from vigorous activities and sudden head movements is essential.
- Ear Care: Dressings and packing placed in the ear canal during surgery are usually removed after a week. During this period, the doctor will advise you to keep water out of the ear.
- Infection Risk: Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Your doctor will inform you about recognizing signs of infection.
2–4 Weeks After Surgery:
Returning to Daily Life: Most patients can resume normal daily activities by the second or third week post-surgery. However, full recovery time may vary by individual.
Hearing Evaluation: A few weeks after surgery, the doctor may perform hearing tests to assess your hearing. Some patients experience significant improvement, while others may recover more gradually.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Regular Checkups: Regular follow-up visits with your doctor are essential after cholesteatoma surgery. In the first year post-surgery, checkups are scheduled at intervals to monitor for recurrence.
Possible Second Surgery: In rare cases, cholesteatoma may recur, necessitating a second surgery. This is monitored during regular follow-ups.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
Ear Hygiene: Be cautious about getting water in your ear during baths and use earplugs recommended by your doctor.
Balance and Movement: Patients with dizziness and balance issues should avoid sudden movements during recovery and move carefully.
The recovery process after cholesteatoma surgery is generally positive, but individual differences may occur. If you experience any issues or unexpected situations, contact your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cholesteatoma
How will my hearing be affected after surgery?
Some patients with hearing loss may experience improvement in hearing post-surgery, but full recovery cannot always be expected.
Can cholesteatoma recur after surgery?
Yes, cholesteatoma can recur, so regular follow-up is essential.
Is surgery performed under general anesthesia?
Yes, it is generally performed under general anesthesia.
Will there be pain after surgery?
There may be pain after surgery, but it is usually manageable with medication.
What happens if I don’t have the surgery?
Untreated cholesteatoma can lead to serious complications, such as hearing loss, facial nerve paralysis, or brain infections.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery?
Most patients may need to stay overnight in the hospital.
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Anesthesia Type: General
Operation Time: 2-3 Hours
Pain: Mild
Length of hospital stay: 1 night
Recovery Time 7 days
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