A cholesteatoma is a collection of deceased skin cells that develops within a cavity in your middle ear. Over time, this collection will expand, eventually engulfing your middle ear and the mastoid bone. It may lead to a foul-smelling fluid discharge and a decrease in hearing ability.
The goal is to eliminate the cholesteatoma and halt the drainage. It could also be possible to enhance your hearing at the same moment.
Removing the cholesteatoma can only be achieved through surgery. Maintaining consistent hygiene and using antibiotics can assist in managing any foul-smelling discharges or infections.
The procedure is carried out while you’re under general anesthesia and typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. Your doctor will make an incision either in front of or behind your ear.
They will cut away the bone surrounding the cholesteatoma to determine its extent and then remove it. Your doctor might have to take out the bone in your ear canal. Should this be necessary, they will mold the bone behind your ear (mastoid bone) into a space that leads into your ear.
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Strive to keep your weight within a healthy range. Being overweight increases your likelihood of experiencing health problems. Consistent physical activity can aid in getting you ready for surgery, support your recovery, and boost your health in the future.
Before beginning any exercise routine, seek guidance from your healthcare providers or your family doctor.
Discuss with your medical team any necessary vaccinations to decrease the chance of severe infections during your recovery period.
You’ll be able to head home the following day.
You’ll be able to get back to your job in approximately three weeks. If your doctor needs to reshape your mastoid bone into a hollow space, you’ll likely need to visit the clinic multiple times in the initial months until the space is fully healed.
Keep your ear safe from water by using cotton swabs and petroleum jelly, and avoid swimming until your doctor has confirmed your ear is fully healed. Maintaining a regular exercise routine can aid in your quick recovery.
Before beginning any exercise, seek guidance from the medical staff or your family doctor. Most individuals recover well. Nonetheless, if the bone of your ear canal was not removed, there might be remnants of the cholesteatoma left behind.
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