Tympanomastoidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the mastoid bone and diseased or infected tissue from the middle ear and mastoid area. The middle ear is the space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny bones (ossicles) that transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear. The mastoid is a bony structure behind the ear that is connected to the middle ear and contains air cells that help regulate pressure in the ear.
The procedure is typically performed to treat chronic ear infections that do not respond to medication or other treatments, as well as to remove tumors or other growths in the ear or mastoid area. During the procedure, an incision is made behind the ear, and the mastoid bone is opened to access the middle ear. The surgeon then removes any infected or diseased tissue and may also repair or replace any damaged ossicles.
After the procedure, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for one day and will need to avoid getting the ear wet for 4 weeks. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be necessary to monitor healing and ensure that the ear is functioning properly.