Single-Stage BAHA and Mastoid Obliteration.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Mastoid obliteration is often performed to manage chronic otitis media and prevent complications.
• Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA) are effective for hearing rehabilitation in specific patient groups.
• Traditional BAHA implantation and mastoid obliteration typically require separate surgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a single-stage surgical technique combining BAHA implant and abutment placement with mastoid obliteration.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this combined procedure in patients requiring both interventions.

Main Methods:

• A case series of six patients undergoing the combined single-stage BAHA insertion and mastoid obliteration procedure.
• Surgical technique involved utilizing BAHA soft tissue reduction for mastoid obliteration.
• Assessment of osseointegration, ear canal status (dryness), hearing thresholds, and sound localization at 12-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The combined procedure was successfully performed in all six patients.
• Excellent osseointegration of the BAHA implant was achieved.
• All patients achieved a dry ear, resolving previous discharge issues.
• At 12 months, patients demonstrated good hearing thresholds and sound localization with their BAHA.

Conclusions:

• Single-stage BAHA implantation and mastoid obliteration is a viable and effective surgical approach.
• This technique simplifies surgical management, reduces patient morbidity, and yields positive audiological and otological outcomes.
• The combined procedure successfully addresses hearing loss and eliminates the social stigma associated with chronic discharging ears.