Name of the Procedure:

Tympanolysis, transcanal

Summary

Tympanolysis, transcanal is a surgical procedure performed to remove adhesions or scar tissue in the middle ear that can affect hearing. The procedure is done by accessing the middle ear through the ear canal.

Purpose

Tympanolysis, transcanal is aimed at improving hearing by removing scar tissue that interferes with the normal movement of the eardrum or ossicles. The expected outcome is enhanced hearing ability and reduced ear symptoms.

Indications

• Chronic otitis media with effusion
• Adhesive otitis media
• Hearing loss due to tympanic membrane adhesions
• Tympanosclerosis

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours prior to the procedure if under general anesthesia.
• Discontinuing certain medications as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Pre-procedure hearing tests and imaging studies like CT scans may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is prepared and given either local or general anesthesia, based on the case specifics.
2. The surgeon uses a microscope and fine instruments to access the middle ear through the ear canal.
3. Scar tissue or adhesions in the middle ear are carefully dissected and removed.
4. Any damage to the eardrum or ossicles is repaired, if necessary.
5. The ear canal is cleaned, and the incision is left to heal naturally or sutured, if required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital operating room.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) surgeon or otolaryngologist
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Perforation of the eardrum
• Temporary or permanent hearing loss
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

Benefits

• Improved hearing
• Relief from chronic ear infections and associated symptoms
• Enhanced quality of life Benefits can often be realized within a few weeks as the ear heals and inflammation decreases.

Recovery

• Patients can often go home the same day.
• Keep the ear dry and avoid any water entry for at least two weeks.
• Follow prescribed pain medications and antibiotics.
• Attend all follow-up appointments.
• Full recovery and hearing improvement might take a few weeks to a few months.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the condition is not severe
• Hearing aids for non-surgical management of hearing loss
• Myringotomy with tube insertion in cases of chronic fluid accumulation

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients under general anesthesia will be asleep and feel nothing. Under local anesthesia, patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort but no pain. After the procedure, some soreness or mild pain is expected, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Hearing improvement and relief from symptoms should gradually become noticeable as healing progresses.