Advanced Mastoidectomy Surgery In The Best Ent Clinics

What is the Difference Between Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty?

Mastoidectomy and tympanoplasty are different surgeries. They target different ear areas and have different purposes. Here are the key differences between the surgeries:

Mastoidectomy:

• Purpose: 

Mastoidectomy removes infected or diseased mastoid air cells. It treats chronic ear infections, mastoiditis, or cholesteatoma.

• Surgical Area: 

Mastoidectomy targets the mastoid bone behind the ear. The middle ear may be involved.

• Goals: 

It includes eliminating infection, preventing complications and excising cholesteatoma.

Tympanoplasty:

• Purpose: 

The surgery is aimed at repairing a perforated eardrum or reconstructing the middle ear structures. It addresses issues such as hearing loss or middle ear damage.

• Surgical Area: 

Tympanoplasty focuses on the middle ear. It repairs the eardrum and ossicles (malleus, incus, stapes).

• Goals: 

Tympanoplasty repairs the eardrum and middle ear. It improves hearing and prevents recurring infections.

Mastoidectomy and tympanoplasty may be done together. This happens with middle ear damage, cholesteatoma, or chronic infection. The approach depends on your condition and the surgeon’s skill. See an ENT specialist for evaluation. They check symptoms, do tests, and suggest the best procedure.

Diagnostic Tests Before Mastoidectomy

A mastoidectomy is done for cholesteatoma or severe mastoid infection. Symptoms can mimic other ear problems. An ENT surgeon must diagnose carefully before planning treatment.

A doctor may suggest blood tests. Imaging, like MRI, CT, and X-rays of the head and ear, may also be done. The scan checks the severity of mastoid damage. If the infection may reach the skull, a lumbar puncture is needed.

What Happens During Mastoidectomy Procedure?

Mastoidectomy is done in an operating room. An experienced ENT surgeon uses a microscope for the procedure. The surgery is performed under the influence of general anaesthesia.  In a simple mastoidectomy, the surgeon makes an incision behind the ear to access the mastoid bone. The incision is precise to minimise scarring. The surgeon uses a microscope and specialised tools to open the mastoid bone. Suction irrigation keeps the area clear of bone dust.

They remove the infected air cells from the mastoid bone. Then, they stitch the surgical site. A surgeon dresses the surgical wound in gauze to keep it clean and dry. Sometimes, the surgeon uses a facial nerve monitor. This helps prevent facial nerve injury. A simple mastoidectomy surgery takes 2-3 hours to complete.

Benefits of Mastoidectomy Surgery

Some common advantages of mastoidectomy surgery include

• Treatment of chronic ear infections: 

Mastoidectomy treats persistent ear infections. It is used when antibiotics and other treatments fail.

• Prevention of complications: 

Mastoidectomy removes infected or damaged tissue. It prevents infection from spreading to the brain or inner ear.

• Relief from symptoms: 

Mastoiditis, causes pain and swelling behind the ear. It can be managed through mastoidectomy surgery.

• Restoration of hearing: 

Mastoidectomy removes cholesteatoma from the middle ear. It protects surrounding structures. The surgery prevents complications and preserves hearing.

• Elimination of cholesteatoma: 

Mastoidectomy removes cholesteatoma that harms the middle ear. It protects nearby structures. The surgery prevents complications and preserves hearing. 

Preparation Before Mastoidectomy

Listed below are some preparation tips to reduce the complications during surgery:

• Medical assessment: 

A healthcare provider checks your medical history and past ear issues. They may run tests to evaluate the problem and plan surgery.

• Medication review: 

Talk to your healthcare provider about all medications. Include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. They give instructions on medications before surgery. Some may need to be continued, while others are paused temporarily.

• Fasting: 

A healthcare provider may advise fasting before surgery. An empty stomach lowers anaesthesia-related risks.

• Avoidance of substances: 

A doctor advises avoiding alcohol and tobacco before surgery. Some medications and supplements should be stopped. These can affect anaesthesia and healing.

• Pre-operative instructions: 

You must follow all the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. These may include guidelines on fasting. Like, using special antibacterial soap for showering and removing makeup or nail polish.

• Transportation and support arrangements: 

Mastoidectomy involves anaesthesia. So you must arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility. Have a friend or family member accompany you. They can provide support during and after surgery.

• Addressing concerns: 

Before the surgery, ensure you discuss all your questions with your doctor. Open communication helps you understand the procedure, risks, and outcomes. These are general guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. They give personalised advice to ensure safety and the best results.

What Happens During Mastoidectomy Surgery?

Step 1 · 30–60 mins

Hospital Admission

The patient arrives at the hospital.

Registration and admission formalities are completed.

Vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen levels, are checked.

Step 2 · 20–40 mins

Pre-surgery Preparation

The ENT surgeon reviews the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic reports.

A CT scan, hearing test (audiometry), and other required investigations are reviewed.

The surgical procedure, expected outcomes, and possible risks are explained.

Informed consent is obtained, and an IV line is started for fluids and medications.

Step 3 · 10-15 mins

Anaesthesia Administration

The patient is taken to the operating theatre.

General anaesthesia is usually administered so the patient remains asleep and pain-free during the surgery.

Heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored.

Step 4 · 1–3 hours

Mastoidectomy Procedure

The surgeon makes an incision behind the ear to access the mastoid bone.

A surgical microscope or endoscope may be used to obtain a clear view of the affected area.

Infected or damaged mastoid air cells, diseased tissue, or a cholesteatoma (if present) are carefully removed.

The surgeon cleans the affected area while protecting important structures of the middle ear and surrounding tissues.

Depending on the condition, additional ear procedures may be performed if required.

Bleeding is controlled, and the incision is closed with sutures and covered with a dressing.

Step 5 · 2-4 hours

Post-surgery Recovery

The patient is moved to the recovery room as the effects of anaesthesia wear off.

Nurses monitor blood pressure, pulse, oxygen levels, pain, dizziness, and overall recovery.

Once fully awake and stable, the patient can begin drinking fluids and gradually resume a light diet.

Pain-relief medicines and antibiotics may be prescribed as required.

Step 6 · Same Day or Within 1-2 Days

Discharge

Depending on the extent of surgery and the patient’s recovery, discharge may be possible on the same day or after an overnight stay.

The patient receives instructions on wound care, ear protection, medications, and follow-up visits.

The ear should be kept dry, and patients should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and forceful nose blowing until advised otherwise.

Patients should contact their doctor if they experience heavy bleeding, persistent high fever, severe pain, increasing swelling, facial weakness, worsening dizziness, or unusual ear discharge.

Recovery After Mastoidectomy Surgery

It takes 8-12 weeks to recover after the surgery. In some cases, patients start feeling better in a few days. Others may take up to 14 days to recover.

After surgery, you may notice stitches near your ear. You can feel headaches, numbness, and discomfort. In some cases, pain can occur for the first few days after surgery. A doctor recommends activity restrictions for up to 3-4 weeks.

Risk & Complications Associated

• Infection: 

The surgical site or the nearby area may get infected. This may need extra treatment.

• Bleeding: 

Bleeding occurs during or after the surgery, and excessive bleeding may require intervention to control it.

• Injury to surrounding structures: 

Surgery can injure nearby structures. This includes the facial nerve, inner ear, and brain.

This can cause facial weakness, hearing loss, dizziness, or CSF leakage.

• Changes in taste or balance: 

Surgery may injure nearby structures like the facial nerve, inner ear, and brain. This can cause facial weakness, hearing loss, dizziness, or CSF leakage.

• Persistent or recurrent infection: 

Sometimes, mastoidectomy does not fully cure the infection. The infection may return, requiring further treatment or surgery.

• Cosmetic effects: 

Sometimes, mastoidectomy can change the shape or appearance behind the ear. Surgeons try to minimise cosmetic effects.

• Rare complications: 

In rare cases, serious complications may occur. These include meningitis, facial nerve injury, or inner ear damage. Immediate medical attention is required.

Lifestyle Changes After Mastoidectomy Surgery

Listed below are some changes that you can adopt for recovery after surgery:

• Rest and recovery: 

Give yourself enough time to rest and recover after surgery. Follow all the recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Avoid strenuous activities and intense exercises.

• Medication and wound care: 

Take all prescribed medications. This includes antibiotics and pain relievers. Follow wound care instructions. Clean the incision and change dressings as directed.

• Ear protection: 

Keep your ear dry to prevent infection. Use earplugs or avoid swimming until your doctor says it’s safe.

• Follow-up appointments: 

Attend all follow-up appointments. Your doctor will remove sutures or dressings and assess recovery.

• Pressure changes: 

Avoid activities that change pressure suddenly, like scuba diving or flying. This helps prevent discomfort and complications during healing.

• Lifestyle adjustments: 

Follow lifestyle changes suggested by your doctor. Avoid smoking to support healing. Eat a healthy diet to boost recovery and immunity.

• Contact healthcare provider: 

Contact your healthcare provider if you have unusual symptoms. These include severe pain, fever, increased drainage, or changes in hearing.

These lifestyle changes are general guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. They give advice to ensure smooth recovery and the best results.

Cost of Mastoidectomy Surgery

It depends on the following factors. 

• Choice of treatment hospital
• Choice of the hospital room
• The consultation fee of the ENT surgeon
• Additional surgical procedures are required with mastoidectomy
• Cost of diagnostic tests
• Cost of anaesthesia and other surgical equipment
• Type of surgery being performed
• Cost of medications and postoperative care required
• Post-surgery consultation charges

Mastoidectomy Surgery Coverage Under Insurance

Mastoid surgery treats chronic ear infections. If a doctor deems it necessary, health insurance covers it. Many health insurance plans cover surgeries like mastoidectomy. Coverage details depend on the plan type, deductible, and coinsurance.

Non-Surgical Treatment To Remove Diseased Mastoid Air Cells

Some non-surgical treatment options are as follows:

• Antibiotics: 

In mild or early infections, doctors prescribe oral or IV antibiotics. These help control infection and reduce inflammation. Antibiotics alone may not remove diseased mastoid air cells. Further treatment might be needed.

• Ear drops: 

Doctors may recommend ear drops for external ear infections. They can be antibiotics or anti-inflammatory to treat the infection.

• Watchful waiting: 

If the infection is mild, doctors may suggest observation. Regular follow-up appointments are recommended. Watchful waiting monitors the condition to prevent worsening or complications. It may not be suitable for advanced or persistent cases.

See an experienced ENT surgeon for the best treatment. They check the infection, review your symptoms, and suggest non-surgical options. Surgical removal of infected mastoid air cells is the best treatment. It resolves severe or chronic mastoiditis.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

Before surgery, you must ask the following questions to your surgeon to have a better understanding of the procedure and the risks and complications associated with it:

• What is the reason for mastoidectomy?
• Is mastoidectomy an emergency procedure?
• What are the risks and complications of mastoidectomy surgery?
• What precautions do I need to take before the surgery to reduce the chances of complications during the surgery?
• How long will it take to recover completely after the mastoidectomy surgery?
• What is the cost of mastoidectomy surgery in India?
• Is mastoidectomy a painful procedure?
• What to eat after mastoidectomy surgery to recover quickly after the surgery?
• What is the age limit for mastoidectomy surgery?
• What is the success rate of mastoidectomy surgery?
• What are the two main types of mastoidectomy? 
• How long is a mastoidectomy surgery?
• What is the difference between mastoidectomy and tympanoplasty?
• What is the other treatment except for mastoidectomy surgery?
• What are the risk factors for mastoidectomy surgery?
• What is the recovery process after a mastoidectomy?
• How is a mastoidectomy performed?
• How is a cortical mastoidectomy performed?
• In what cases mastoidectomy with tympanoplasty is required?

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