Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Foreign Body from External Auditory Canal (with general anesthesia)

Summary

This procedure involves the removal of a foreign object from the ear canal using general anesthesia to ensure the patient is unconscious and does not experience discomfort during the procedure.

Purpose

This procedure is typically performed to remove objects that are stuck in the ear canal, which could cause pain, infection, hearing loss, or damage to the ear.

Indications

• Presence of a foreign object in the ear
• Pain or discomfort in the ear
• Hearing loss or muffled hearing
• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge
• Failure of non-invasive removal methods

Preparation

• Pre-procedure fasting (usually no food or drink for 6-8 hours before surgery)
• Review of the patient’s medical history and allergies
• Possible pre-procedure imaging tests like an X-ray or CT scan to locate the object
• Consultation with the anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia risks and history

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Once anesthesia takes effect, the patient is positioned to allow clear access to the ear.
3. The surgeon uses specialized tools like an otoscope to visualize the ear canal and identify the foreign object.
4. Forceps, suction devices, or other instruments are carefully used to grasp and remove the object from the ear canal.
5. The ear canal is examined for any injury or infection, and appropriate treatment is administered if needed.
6. The patient is gradually brought out of anesthesia under the supervision of the anesthesiologist.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or a surgical center with facilities for general anesthesia.

Personnel

• Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist)
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurse or assistant
• Operating room staff

Risks and Complications

• Common: Mild pain or discomfort, temporary dizziness, minor bleeding
• Rare: Infection, damage to the ear canal or eardrum, adverse reactions to anesthesia, residual foreign body fragments

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort caused by the foreign object
• Restoration of normal hearing
• Prevention of infection and further ear damage
• Immediate improvement in symptoms following the removal

Recovery

• Patients are monitored in the recovery area until the anesthesia wears off.
• Mild ear pain or discomfort may be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
• Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal during the healing process.
• Follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing and to monitor for any signs of infection or complications.

Alternatives

• Attempting non-invasive removal methods in a clinical setting
• Using ear drops to soften the object for easier removal
• Consulting with a specialist for alternative removal techniques if the object is not easily accessible

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia and will be unconscious, feeling no pain or discomfort. After the procedure, there may be some mild ear pain or discomfort. The patient may also feel groggy or disoriented as they wake up from anesthesia. Comfort measures include pain management and clear post-procedure care instructions provided by the healthcare team.