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An audit of 'dead ear' after ear surgery
1Department of Otolaryngology, James Paget University Hospital, Great Yarmouth, and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|November 16, 2013
Summary
Post-operative dead ear, a serious complication of ear surgery, occurred in approximately 1% of cases. Adults undergoing mastoid surgery for cholesteatoma had a higher incidence (2.7%), indicating a need for improved surgical consent.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Complications
- Auditory Health
Background:
- 'Dead ear' is a rare but severe complication following ear surgery.
- This study audits the incidence and characteristics of this complication.
Observation:
- Over six years, 617 middle-ear operations were audited.
- Six cases (approximately 1%) of post-operative dead ear were identified.
- No dead ear cases occurred after otosclerosis or pediatric procedures.
Findings:
- Adults undergoing mastoid surgery for cholesteatoma had a 2.7% incidence of post-operative dead ear (5 out of 187 cases).
- The incidence of dead ear after cholesteatoma surgery in adults is higher than previously recognized.
Implications:
- Findings necessitate a review of the surgical consenting process for cholesteatoma surgery.
- While often avoidable, dead ear can be an inevitable complication in certain otologic procedures.
