Can Infection Return After Mastoid Surgery?
7 months ago
My father underwent mastoidectomy last year after years of ear problems. Initially things seemed fine, but recently he has started complaining of ear discharge again. We are worried if this means the surgery failed, or if infections commonly return even after removing the diseased bone. Does he need another operation, or can it be managed with medicines this time?
Answers (2)
Top Doctor
It is possible for some patients to develop discharge again after mastoidectomy, even if the diseased bone was removed successfully. In many cases, this discharge is due to minor infections, residual disease, or even wax and debris collecting in the ear cavity after surgery. It does not always mean that the surgery failed. ENT doctors usually examine the ear closely, clean it, and may prescribe antibiotic drops or medicines to settle the infection. Sometimes, revision surgery may be required if there is regrowth of cholesteatoma or if significant disease remains, but this is not always the case. Regular ear cleaning and follow-up appointments are very important after mastoid surgery to maintain a healthy ear. Medicines often control mild issues, and only persistent or severe problems require further surgery.
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