Ear canal hyperostosis--surfer's ear. An improved surgical technique

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Sports Medicine
• Dermatology

Background:

• Surfing's popularity has led to more cases of ear canal exostosis, termed hyperostosis in severe cases.
• Prolonged exposure to cold ocean water is a key factor in developing hyperostosis.
• Hyperostosis can cause hearing loss and external otitis, impacting coastal communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the rising incidence of ear canal hyperostosis in surfers.
• To describe a method for preventing tympanic membrane perforation during surgical intervention for hyperostosis.
• To emphasize the link between cold-water surfing and the development of this condition.

Main Methods:

• Describing a surgical technique to prevent tympanic membrane perforation.
• Observational data on the increasing incidence of hyperostosis in surfers.
• Clinical experience with managing severe ear canal hyperostosis.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in ear canal hyperostosis is observed in surfing populations.
• Tympanic membrane perforation is a common risk during the removal of large hyperostoses.
• The proposed method effectively prevents eardrum injury during surgical removal.

Conclusions:

• Ear canal hyperostosis is a growing concern for surfers due to cold water exposure.
• Preventive measures during surgical removal are crucial to avoid complications like tympanic membrane perforation.
• Early recognition and management are important for surfers experiencing hearing loss or otitis externa.