Cortical mastoidectomy in Gurgaon

The mastoid is the honeycomb of air cells in the bone behind the ear. Cortical mastoidectomy removes infected or diseased air cells to clear chronic infection, and is often combined with eardrum or hearing bone repair.

It may be recommended for: chronic mastoid infection that does not respond to medicines; cholesteatoma in the middle ear or mastoid; complications of chronic ear infection; repeated acute ear infections that do not settle.

A cut is made behind the ear, and the infected air cells are removed with fine instruments while the facial nerve and inner ear are carefully protected. When needed, tympanoplasty (eardrum repair) or ossiculoplasty (repair of the hearing bones) is done in the same operation.

Take the pain medicines as prescribed. Keep the ear clean and dry, and follow the dressing instructions. Do not swim or put your head under water until your surgeon says it is safe. Avoid loud noise and earphones until cleared. Do not fly or travel to high altitude until your surgeon advises it is safe. Come for a follow-up visit 1–2 weeks after surgery.

As with any operation, there are possible complications: infection, which may need antibiotics; temporary or, rarely, permanent hearing loss; ringing or buzzing in the ear; facial nerve injury, which is rare; dizziness for a few days after surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these with you before surgery.

The aim is to clear disease and protect or improve hearing. Permanent hearing loss is rare.

Modern techniques and pain control keep discomfort low for most patients.

There is a small cut behind the ear, placed in the natural crease, so the scar is hard to see.

The facial nerve is carefully protected and monitored. The risk is low with an experienced surgeon.

Surgery gives long-lasting results for most people. Some conditions, such as cholesteatoma, can return, so regular follow-up is important.