Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

04:34
Surgical Treatment of an Endolymphatic Sac Tumor
Published on: May 26, 2023
[Preauricular mass following tympanoplasty]
1Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Universitätsklinik, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 5, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland.
HNO
|April 22, 2011
Summary
A rare complication following middle ear surgery, a superficial temporal artery aneurysm, was observed. This pulsating node was successfully treated surgically, highlighting a potential risk after tympanoplasty.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Middle ear operations, such as tympanoplasty, carry potential surgical risks.
- Aneurysms, abnormal bulges in blood vessels, can occur as rare complications of surgical procedures.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old male developed a pulsating preauricular node weeks after middle ear surgery.
- Computed tomography angiography (CTA) identified an aneurysm of the superficial temporal artery.
Findings:
- The superficial temporal artery aneurysm was confirmed histologically after surgical resection.
- This case represents the first documented instance of a superficial temporal artery aneurysm as a complication of tympanoplasty.
Implications:
- Surgical trauma from endaural incisions or retractors may cause superficial temporal artery aneurysms.
- Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for surgeons performing middle ear procedures.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are key for managing this vascular complication.

