Surgical treatment for chronic middle ear infection
Mastoidectomy
Surgical removal of infected mastoid bone cells behind the ear to treat chronic middle ear infection and prevent further complications.
Procedures
More ENT procedures
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Procedure time
2–3 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Hospital stay
1–2 day stay
Recovery
2–4 weeks
Overview
What to expect from Mastoidectomy
Chronic middle ear infections that spread to the mastoid bone can require surgical treatment to clear the infection and protect hearing. MedVocs' ENT surgeons perform mastoidectomy using microsurgical techniques.
Depending on severity, the procedure may be combined with tympanoplasty to repair the eardrum in the same sitting.
Benefits
Why patients choose this procedure
- Clears persistent infection at its source
- Protects against further hearing complications
- Can be combined with eardrum repair when needed
- Experienced microsurgical technique
Why Choose MedVocs
- ENT surgeons experienced in ear microsurgery
- Combined procedures available where appropriate
- Detailed hearing assessment before and after surgery
- Structured follow-up care
How to prepare (before surgery)
- Attend a pre-surgery consultation where your surgeon reviews your history, examines you, and explains the procedure and expected outcome.
- Complete any pre-operative tests advised — such as blood tests, ECG, or imaging — so you can be confirmed fit for surgery.
- Tell your surgeon about all medicines you take (especially blood thinners like aspirin), and any allergies — some may need to be paused before surgery.
- Fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure as instructed, since it is done under general, spinal, or regional anaesthesia.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you and take you home after the procedure.
What happens during the procedure — step by step
- 1
You are positioned comfortably and the anaesthesia is administered so you feel no pain during surgery.
- 2
The surgeon makes a small, precise incision and treats or removes the affected tissue.
- 3
Care is taken to control bleeding and protect surrounding healthy structures throughout.
- 4
The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue and dressed, and you are moved to recovery.
Recovery & what to expect afterwards
- You are monitored on the ward during your 1–2 day stay so the care team can manage comfort and early recovery.
- Most patients return to light daily activities within a recovery window of about 2–4 weeks, depending on individual healing.
- You will receive clear instructions on wound care, medication, diet, and activity, plus a scheduled follow-up to review your progress.
Aftercare & precautions
- Take prescribed medicines (including any antibiotics or pain relief) exactly as directed, and keep the surgical area clean and dry.
- Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and driving until your surgeon confirms it is safe to resume them.
- Watch for warning signs — increasing pain, swelling, bleeding, discharge, or fever — and contact your care team promptly if they occur.
- Attend all follow-up appointments so healing can be checked and any stitches or dressings managed on time.
For reference information only. This page provides general guidance about Mastoidectomy and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Exact technique, anaesthesia, and recovery vary by patient and surgeon. Please consult a qualified specialist and confirm details with the MedVocs care team before deciding on any procedure.
FAQs
Common questions about Mastoidectomy
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