A Small Glomus Tympanicum Tumor Resected by Minimally Invasive Transcanal Endoscopic Approach

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Endoscopic Surgery

Background:

• Glomus tympanicum tumors are rare, hypervascular neoplasms arising from paraganglion cells in the middle ear.
• Surgical resection is the primary treatment, with traditional approaches potentially causing morbidity.
• Endoscopic techniques offer a minimally invasive alternative for specific tumor types and locations.

Observation:

• A 51-year-old female presented with a 6-month history of right-sided pulsatile tinnitus.
• Otoscopy revealed a reddish mass behind the tympanic membrane.
• CT imaging confirmed a small mesotympanic glomus tympanicum tumor, classified as Glasscock-Jackson type 1, Fisch class A, and modified Fisch/Mattox class A1.

Findings:

• Complete tumor resection was achieved via a transcanal endoscopic approach.
• The surgery was performed without any intraoperative or postoperative complications.
• Post-surgery, pure-tone audiometry indicated normal hearing levels.
• The patient's preoperative pulsatile tinnitus completely resolved after the procedure.

Implications:

• Transcanal endoscopic resection is a safe and effective treatment for small, localized glomus tympanicum tumors.
• This minimally invasive technique preserves hearing and resolves associated symptoms like tinnitus.
• Endoscopic ear surgery represents a favorable advancement in the management of middle ear neoplasms.