Name of the Procedure:

Revision Mastoidectomy (Complete Mastoidectomy)

Summary

A revision mastoidectomy aims to clear disease from the mastoid bone behind the ear. This procedure is typically performed when a previous mastoidectomy did not fully resolve the issue or when complications arise.

Purpose

The procedure addresses persistent or recurrent infections and other pathologies in the mastoid bone. Its goal is to entirely remove diseased tissue, improving hearing and preventing further complications.

Indications

• Chronic otitis media (persistent ear infections)
• Cholesteatoma (abnormal skin growth in the middle ear)
• Hearing loss due to mastoid disease
• Complications from prior mastoid surgery

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the physician
• Preoperative hearing tests and imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is fully sedated.
2. An incision is made behind the ear to access the mastoid bone.
3. Using specialized drills and surgical instruments, the surgeon removes diseased tissue, reconstructing parts of the ear if necessary.
4. The surgical area is cleaned, and the incision is closed with sutures.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding or infection
• Hearing loss
• Damage to facial nerves, leading to facial weakness
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Recurrence of the original condition

Benefits

• Elimination of chronic infections or diseases
• Improved ear function and hearing
• Prevention of further complications Benefits may start to be realized immediately after recovery but can take several weeks to fully appreciate.

Recovery

• Monitoring in a recovery room post-surgery
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Keeping the surgical area dry and clean
• Follow-up appointments within a week and additional check-ups over several months
• Avoid strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks

Alternatives

• Medical management with antibiotics or ear drops
• Less invasive surgical procedures, depending on the case Each alternative varies in effectiveness and may not fully address severe cases of mastoid disease.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything. Post-procedure, discomfort and mild pain are common, managed with pain relievers. Temporary dizziness or hearing loss might occur, generally subsiding over time with proper care and follow-up.