Exostoses of the ear canal

Diagnosis

Exostoses are benign, usually bilateral bony growths in the bony ear canal. They develop mainly with frequent exposure to cold water and wind, for example when surfing, swimming or diving, and are therefore also called “surfer’s ear”. Small exostoses often cause no symptoms. Larger ones can narrow the ear canal so that water and earwax drain less well, infections occur more often and hearing may be affected. Diagnosis is made by ear microscopy, a hearing test and, if necessary, computed tomography.

Earplugs or head covering during water sports help as prevention.

Treatment options

In case of marked narrowing with recurrent infections or hearing loss, the exostoses can be removed surgically, usually through the ear canal under the microscope. The eardrum and facial nerve are carefully protected. A break from water exposure is needed after the operation.