Name of the Procedure:

Myringoplasty Common Name: Ear Drum Repair Technical Term: Tympanoplasty (Type 1)

Summary

Myringoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair a hole or perforation in the eardrum (tympanic membrane). It helps restore normal hearing and prevents recurrent ear infections by fixing the damaged drumhead.

Purpose

Medical Condition: To address tympanic membrane perforations due to infection, trauma, or chronic ear diseases. Goals/Outcomes: Restore the eardrum’s integrity, improve hearing, and prevent infections.

Indications

1. Persistent ear infections.
2. Hearing loss.
3. Perforation due to injury or trauma.
4. Chronic otitis media (middle ear infection).

Patient Criteria: Patients experiencing recurrent ear infections, significant hearing loss, or persistent eardrum perforations.

Preparation

1. Fasting: Patients may need to fast for several hours before the surgery.
2. Medication: Adjustments to medications like blood thinners may be necessary.
3. Diagnostic Tests: Hearing tests, physical ear examinations, and imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) might be required.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Typically performed under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: A small incision is made either behind the ear or through the ear canal.
3. Graft Harvest: A graft, often taken from the patient’s own tissue (like fascia from the temporalis muscle), is prepared.
4. Repair: The graft is carefully placed over the perforation in the eardrum and secured.
5. Closure: The incision is closed, and dressings are applied.

Tools: Microsurgical instruments, operating microscope, graft materials.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

1. ENT Surgeon (Otolaryngologist)
2. Anesthesiologist
3. Surgical Nurses

Risks and Complications

Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, hearing loss, dizziness. Rare Risks: Facial nerve injury, graft failure, recurrent perforation.

Benefits

Restored hearing and eardrum integrity. Reduced infections. Benefits usually realized within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

1. Post-Procedure Care: Keep the ear dry, avoid heavy lifting, and follow prescribed medications.
2. Recovery Time: Typically 2-4 weeks.
3. Restrictions: Avoid swimming, getting water in the ear, and strenuous activities.
4. Follow-Up: Scheduled visits to monitor healing and remove dressings.

Alternatives

1. Watchful Waiting: For minor perforations that might heal on their own.
2. Hearing Aids: For hearing improvement without surgery.
3. Other Surgeries: Different tympanoplasty techniques depending on the case.

Pros/Cons: Alternatives might avoid surgery but may not offer the permanent solution myringoplasty provides.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure: Under anesthesia, patients won't feel pain or be conscious of the procedure. After the Procedure: Some discomfort, mild pain, and temporary dizziness might occur. Pain management includes prescribed pain relievers and rest.