Mastoidectomy
Mastoidectomy
The mastoid bone, located behind the ear, contains air-filled cells that are connected to the middle ear. When severe or chronic ear infections spread to this area, they can damage bone tissue and lead to serious complications. Mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove infected cells, cholesteatoma, or diseased tissue from the mastoid bone. As an experienced ENT Specialist in Dubai, Dr. Amit Goel offers advanced mastoidectomy techniques to eliminate infection, restore ear function, and prevent long-term complications.
What Is Mastoidectomy?
Mastoidectomy is a specialised ear surgery performed to remove infected or damaged mastoid air cells. The procedure is often necessary when chronic ear infections do not respond to medication or when a cholesteatoma—a destructive skin growth inside the middle ear—develops.
The goal is to create a safe, dry, and infection-free ear that can function normally.
Why Is Mastoidectomy Needed?
Mastoidectomy may be recommended for:
- Chronic suppurative otitis media
- Cholesteatoma
- Recurrent or persistent ear discharge
- Erosion of the ossicles or mastoid bone
- Complications such as hearing loss, dizziness, or facial nerve weakness
- Infections that spread to the bone
- Failed medical or previous surgical treatment
Early surgical intervention is essential to prevent severe complications such as meningitis, brain abscess, or permanent hearing loss.
Types of Mastoidectomy
Depending on the extent of disease, different surgical approaches may be used:
Simple (Cortical) Mastoidectomy
Removes infected mastoid air cells while preserving the middle ear structures
Modified Radical Mastoidectomy
Removes part of the posterior canal wall and diseased tissue, often performed for cholesteatoma
Radical Mastoidectomy
A more extensive procedure where infected middle ear and mastoid tissues are removed to prevent life-threatening complications
Canal Wall Up vs. Canal Wall Down
Techniques vary depending on the severity and extent of infection or cholesteatoma
Common Symptoms Requiring Mastoidectomy
Patients may present with:
- Persistent or foul-smelling ear discharge
- Hearing loss
- Ear pain or fullness
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Recurrent infections
- Visible cholesteatoma
- Facial muscle weakness (advanced cases)
These symptoms require immediate ENT evaluation.
How ENT Specialists Diagnose Mastoid Disease
A detailed ENT assessment helps determine the need for surgery.
Dr. Amit Goel may perform:
- Microscopic ear examination
- Audiometry to assess hearing levels
- CT scan of the temporal bone to evaluate mastoid and middle ear structures
- Assessment for cholesteatoma or bone erosion
Accurate diagnosis ensures safe and effective surgical planning.
How Mastoidectomy Is Performed
The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and includes:
- A small incision made behind the ear
- Removal of infected mastoid cells using specialised instruments
- Cleaning or reconstructing middle ear structures if necessary
- Draining infected areas and creating a healthy ear cavity
Depending on the procedure, tympanoplasty or ossicular reconstruction may be performed simultaneously.
Benefits of Mastoidectomy
- Eliminates chronic infection
- Prevents serious intracranial complications
- Reduces ear discharge
- Improves or stabilises hearing
- Enhances overall ear health
- Prevents recurrence of cholesteatoma
Mastoidectomy offers long-term relief when performed by a skilled ENT surgeon.
Post-Procedure Care
Patients are advised to:
- Keep the ear dry
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Attend scheduled follow-up visits
- Take prescribed antibiotics or pain medications
- Avoid nose-blowing or pressure changes
Proper care ensures complete healing and prevents recurrence.
Get Expert Mastoidectomy Treatment in Dubai
If you suffer from chronic ear infections or cholesteatoma:Book your consultation with Dr. Amit Goel – ENT Specialist in Dubai. Advanced mastoidectomy techniques and comprehensive ear care to ensure long-term relief and healthy ear function.