Chronic ear infections and eardrum injuries

Causes

Holes in the eardrum:

Inflammation or trauma can cause holes in the eardrum

Smaller holes can often close on their own, depending on Eustachian tube function

Prolonged middle ear infections can lead to hearing impairment and require surgical treatment

Reasons for treatment

Hole in the eardrum: if a hole does not close on its own and causes hearing impairment, or closure is desired.

Recurrent inflammation: persistent inflammation with progressive hearing loss, earache and ear discharge.

Suppurative bone infection: untreated suppurative bone infection can lead to serious complications.

Treatment options

Surgery: microsurgical technique using an operating microscope or endoscope. An incision behind the ear, in the ear canal or through the eardrum provides adequate access. Use of grafts from the patient's own tissue depending on the size and cause of the hole in the eardrum. Intraoperative monitoring of facial nerve function.

After the procedure

Stitches at the ear are removed after about one week. Internal packing is removed after 2–3 weeks. Protect the ear from water. Regular monitoring of healing and hearing by the referring doctor or Kopfzentrum Bielefeld.