Ossiculoplasty

Definition

Ossiculoplasty is surgery which is done to repair the damaged bones of the ossicles with artificial bones or reshape the bones already there so that they work better. This improves the movement of tiny bones of hearing known as ossicles which is located in the middle ear. This procedure has alternative names which is done in each stage i.e. Myringoplasty, Tympanoplasty, Ossicular reconstruction, Tympanosclerosis surgery, Ossicular discontinuity surgery, Ossicular fixation surgery.

WHY IS IT DONE

• This surgery is done when the eardrum is damaged or has a hole in it.
• To Clean infections or dead tissues on the ear drum.
• If there is a hole, to patch the eardrum with a piece of the patient’s own tissue taken from a vein.
• To remove if there are one or more of the three little bones in the middle ear.
• To repair small holes by placing gel or special paper on the eardrum.
• If there is a chronic infection in the ear.
• If there is build up of extra tissue in the eardrum.

HOW IT IS DONE

The Patient is given local anesthesia before beginning the surgery. The ossiculoplasty surgery is performed either through an incision hidden behind or in front of the ear or through an incision made in the ear canal. The damaged ossicles or ear bones are then cautiously detached, cleaned and replaced with the artificially made bones.

If the hole is small then instead of surgery, Myringoplasty will be done.

If the hole is large and if there is a chronic infection, Tympanoplasty will be done.

The causes of holes in the ear drum are:

1. Sticking something inside the ear canal.
2. Ear infection which is severe.
3. Trauma.
4. Formation of extra tissues.

RISKS

Infection or bleeding will occur from within the ear which may cause pain, inflammation and also a bloody odorous discharge will occur from the ear.

The ear may develop allergic reaction to the dressing in you ear canal and the outer ear also know as pinna may become red and swollen.

If incase damage happens to a particular nerve which runs in the ear space, there are chances that your sense of taste will be disturbed

Dizziness or vertigo can occur occasionally, which will be resolved after a short period of time.

Damage to the facial nerve and the small bones in the middle ear can occur.

Incomplete healing of eardrum can worsen the hearing, in some rare cases complete loss of hearing.

No change in the ear which has been operated on.