Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty

Risks and Complications

The following are the possible complications and risks associated with mastoidectomy and tympanoplasty and staged reconstruction procedures. In addition to the complications and risks listed below, there may be unforeseen complications with any operative procedure.

Dizziness: Some unsteadiness is common the first few days after surgery. Dizziness with sudden head motion may persist for several weeks. Dizziness may be prolonged on rare occasions.

Taste disturbance and mouth dryness: These are not uncommon for a few weeks after surgery and may be prolonged in 5 percent of patients.

Hearing loss: Hearing may be worse after surgery if the hearing bones are involved and cannot be reconstructed at the time of surgery. In some cases, a secondary procedure may be necessary to improve hearing. In 1 percent of patients, severe hearing loss may occur and may prevent the use of a hearing aid in the affected ear.

Tinnitus (head noise): If hearing decreases after surgery, tinnitus may occur or become more noticeable.

Infection: Infection occurs rarely after surgery. Should infection develop, however, it could lead to meningitis (an infection in the fluid and tissues surrounding the brain), which could require prolonged antibiotic therapy and/or hospitalization.

Weakness of the face: Temporary weakness of one side of the face is a rare complication of ear surgery. It may occur as the result of an abnormality or a swelling of a facial nerve. Permanent paralysis of a facial nerve is extremely rare. Eye complications, which require treatment by a specialist, could develop.

Hematoma (collection of blood under the skin incision): Hematomas develop in a small percentage of cases and require prolonged hospitalization and healing. Surgical removal of the clot may be necessary if a hematoma occurs.

Failure of the eardrum to heal: Failure of the eardrum to heal is usually associated with infection and occurs in approximately 5 percent of cases.

General anesthesia complications: There are risks associated with any anesthesia, including breathing problems and cardiac arrhythmia. You may discuss the anesthetic risks with the anesthesiologist.

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