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Cutaneous sensory deficit following post-auricular incision
1ENT Department, Poole District Hospital, Portsmouth, UK. stevethemedic1@yahoo.co.uk
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|August 13, 2011
Summary
Most patients experience temporary post-auricular numbness after ear surgery, with a minority reporting persistent deficits. However, ongoing numbness typically lessens in severity and area over time, impacting few patients significantly.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Post-auricular incisions are common for otological procedures.
- Post-operative numbness of the pinna or post-auricular skin is frequently reported.
- The natural course and long-term impact of this numbness require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of post-operative numbness following post-auricular incisions.
- To assess the long-term impact and resolution patterns of sensory deficits.
Main Methods:
- A single-center, questionnaire-based study was conducted.
- Assessed numbness presence, location, changes, and impact at least eight months post-surgery.
- Included data from 35 primary and 16 revision otological procedures.
Main Results:
- 69% of primary surgery patients reported post-operative numbness.
- 26% experienced numbness persisting beyond eight months.
- Of those with persistent numbness, most noted reduced severity and area over time.
Conclusions:
- While initial numbness is common, persistent deficits are less frequent and usually diminish.
- Revision cases may have a slightly worse recovery regarding numbness.
- The long-term impact of persistent numbness is generally minimal.
