Tympanoplasty

What is it?

Tympanoplasty is a surgical procedure which involves repair of the hole in the ear drum. The procedure involves use of your own tissue to reconstruct the ear drum. The success rate for closure of the perforation is about 97%. A revision procedure may be needed in case of failure or recurrence.

What is the aim of the procedure?

The main purpose of the procedure is to identify and remove the disease present in the middle ear and to repair the ossicles and ear drum to improve the hearing. Closing the hole in the ear drum  prevents infection of the externa ear entering into the middle ear, and improves hearing in case of hearing loss due to hole in the ear drum.

What is done during the procedure?

The main purpose of the procedure is to identify and remove the disease present in the middle ear and to repair the ossicles and ear drum to reduce chances of recurrent infection and complications that could occur due to the infection and to improve the hearing. It can be performed through a incision behind the ear or through the external auditory canal by the endoscopic technique.

The procedure will be carried out under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia. If you have any anaesthetic concerns, please discuss with your anaesthesist.

What are the risks associated with the procedure?

• Bleeding, is even more common when on certain specific drugs like anti platelets and anti-coagulants

• Infection of the operated site

• Failure of graft uptake leading to persistent perforation of the ear drum

• Discharge from the ear

• Ringing sensation in the ear

• Dizziness

• Facial nerve palsy (very rarely)

  
  

Post-operative care and follow-up:

Following the procedure, you will be having a dressing over the ear which will be changed on the day after the surgery. Tingling sensation/numbness around the ear, crackling sensation in the ear and reddish discharge from the ear are expected for a period of upto 1 month after the surgery.

You will be discharged on the day following the surgery, if no complications are encountered. Suture removal will be performed on the 7th postoperative day. You may have to be on follow-up with your doctor for upto 3 months. 

General precautions to be followed:

• Avoid sleeping on the side of the operated ear until complete wound healing occurs. 

• Swimming, air travel, straining, cold food intake are to be avoided. 

• Forceful blowing of nose and head bath for 2-4 weeks. 

• Keep ear canal dry by placing a cotton plug coated with Vaseline® petroleum jelly or coconut oil during shower for a period of 1 month.

• Avoid straining in stools

• Avoiding lifting weights post surgery for a month

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long should I stay in the hospital

Usually 2 to 3 days, depending on how you're feeling. Some people can even go home the same day.

2. Is it done with general or local anesthesia?

It's mostly done with general anesthesia to keep you comfy, but if you prefer, it can be done with local anesthesia. Just know you'll be aware of what's happening, and the suction sound might be a bit unsettling for some.

3. How much time should I take off work?

It's best to take it easy for 2-3 days. Avoid lifting heavy stuff for about 3 weeks and try not to catch a cold during this time.

4. When can I wash my hair after the procedure?

Usually, it's recommended to wait about 3 weeks before washing your hair. Your doctor will give you the go-ahead based on how you're healing.

5. Can I sleep on the side of the operated ear?

It's generally advised not to sleep on that side for about two weeks.

6. What should I eat after the procedure?

No special diet is needed, but it's best to avoid cold stuff like iced drinks and ice cream to prevent catching a cold, which might slow down healing.

7. Can I exercise or hit the gym after surgery?

Like mentioned before, avoid heavy lifting and straining for about 3 weeks, but light walking is okay.

8. Can I travel by bike/taxi or go on long trips after the procedure?

It's best to hold off for a week. After that, follow your doctor's advice.

9. Can it be done in a scarless way?

Yes, it is possible to do the surgery with a endoscope