Mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part of the mastoid bone, located behind the ear, to treat infections or other conditions affecting the middle ear. This procedure is often performed to manage chronic ear infections, mastoiditis (infection of the mastoid bone), or cholesteatoma, which is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear that can damage nearby structures. Mastoidectomy may also be necessary to drain abscesses or prevent the spread of infection to nearby areas, such as the brain. Depending on the extent of disease, different types of mastoidectomy are performed, ranging from simple mastoidectomy, which removes infected air cells from the mastoid, to more complex procedures like radical mastoidectomy, which involves removing not only infected bone but also parts of the middle ear structures. While mastoidectomy can be effective in controlling infections and preventing complications, it carries certain risks. Common complications include infection, hearing loss, and dizziness due to the proximity of the inner ear and balance organs. There is also the risk of facial nerve injury, as the nerve controlling facial muscles runs close to the ear. Other possible complications include tinnitus (ringing in the ears), persistent ear drainage, and scarring. In rare cases, the procedure may not fully resolve the infection, requiring further surgeries. Careful monitoring and post-operative care are crucial to minimize risks and ensure a successful recovery.
