Bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss following non-otologic surgery

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Non-otological surgery associated hearing loss (NOSAHL) is an uncommon complication.
• Most reported cases involve cardiopulmonary bypass, with few documented instances without it.
• Previous reports of bilateral NOSAHL are rare and have not typically resulted in severe, permanent deficits.

Observation:

• A patient with pre-existing, non-operated otosclerosis developed severe bilateral hearing loss.
• This hearing loss occurred following metatarsal pinning, a non-otological orthopedic procedure.
• This represents a unique case of bilateral hearing deficit in the context of non-cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

Findings:

• Metatarsal pinning surgery can lead to permanent, severe bilateral hearing loss.
• Pre-existing otosclerosis may be a risk factor for developing significant hearing loss after non-otological procedures.
• This case expands the understanding of rare complications associated with orthopedic surgery.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider the potential for hearing loss in patients undergoing non-otological surgery, especially those with underlying ear conditions.
• Further research is warranted to investigate the mechanisms and risk factors for NOSAHL.
• This case underscores the importance of comprehensive patient evaluation and risk assessment prior to surgical interventions.