[Our first experience with endoscopic ear surgery]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Endoscopic ear surgery has become a standard practice due to its high-definition visualization and magnification.
• The angled scope allows for improved maneuverability and the ability to visualize difficult-to-reach areas within the middle ear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and application of endoscopic-assisted ear surgery in pediatric patients.
• To assess the use of endoscopic techniques as a primary or assistive method in various otologic procedures.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 53 pediatric patients (81 surgeries) undergoing endoscopic-assisted ear surgery from March 2017 to November 2019.
• Procedures included biopsies, tympanoplasty, tumor removal, myringoplasty, mastoidectomy, and second-look surgeries.

Main Results:

• Two cases of middle ear tumor removal via endoscopic transcanal approach demonstrated successful biopsy and less invasive resection.
• Endoscopic techniques facilitated faster patient recovery in tumor removal cases.
• Overall good outcomes were reported across various procedures, including extensive cholesteatoma removal and ossiculoplasty.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic techniques can serve as an assistive tool or a standalone method in otologic surgery.
• The high-definition camera and precise disease control offered by endoscopy are beneficial.
• Endoscopic ear surgery is feasible and effective in pediatric patients across different age groups.