Mastoidectomy
Mastoidectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove infected or diseased air cells within the mastoid bone, located behind the ear, usually as a treatment for chronic ear infections (chronic otitis media), cholesteatoma (abnormal skin growth in the middle ear), mastoiditis, or complications arising from untreated ear disease. The procedure helps eliminate infection, prevent its spread to nearby structures such as the inner ear or brain, and preserve or improve ear health. Mastoidectomy may be recommended when medications or less invasive treatments are ineffective, or when there is a risk of hearing loss or serious complications. It is typically performed under general anesthesia, and depending on the complexity, the surgery may take about 1–3 hours. Different types of mastoidectomy may be performed, including simple (cortical), modified radical, or radical mastoidectomy, based on the extent of disease. In some cases, the surgeon may combine the procedure with eardrum repair (tympanoplasty) or hearing reconstruction. Recovery generally takes a few weeks, with temporary symptoms such as mild pain, dizziness, ear fullness, or drainage being common. Major benefits include infection control, prevention of complications, relief from persistent ear discharge, and preservation of hearing where possible. Overall, mastoidectomy is considered a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced ENT surgeon in appropriately selected patients.











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