Hearing and understanding are the functions people need most in social life. Hearing and understanding take place in two parts.
- The outer ear, eardrum and middle ear
- The inner ear (cochlea), the hearing nerve and the brain
A large share of hearing loss results from problems in the first part. Some of these can only be resolved with surgery: perforations of the eardrum; fractures, erosion, disconnection and hardening (calcification) of the middle ear bones (incus, stapes, malleus); fluid buildup behind the eardrum; and narrowing of the outer ear canal.
Tests called audiometry and tympanometry are performed to determine the location and degree of the problem causing the hearing loss. If necessary, a CT scan of the ear is taken.
If it is determined that the condition can be resolved with surgery, the patient is prepared for general anesthesia.
The surgery is usually performed through an incision behind the outer ear. In some cases, it can also be done through the outer ear canal.
Because the surgery involves working on very small structures, a microscope is used to eliminate errors. In many patients, fine-tipped drills and shaping instruments may also be required.
To close eardrum perforations, cartilage, perichondrium (the membrane covering cartilage) or fascia taken from around the patient’s ear is used. When the middle ear bones are missing or damaged, synthetic micro-prostheses are used.
In properly selected patients, these operations can improve hearing in 70–95% of cases.
The first factor affecting surgical success is the surgeon’s experience in this field. The second is the instruments and equipment used.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
