Mastoidectomy Health Article

Definition

A mastoidectomy is surgery to remove cells in the hollow, air-filled spaces in the skull behind the ear. These cells are called mastoid air cells.

Description

The surgery used to be a common way to treat an infection in the mastoid air cells. Such infection usually resulted from an ear infection that spread to the nearby bone in the skull.

Why the Procedure Is Performed

Mastoidectomy is now rarely needed, because infections are commonly treated with antibiotics.

However, this surgery may be used to treat other problems, such as:

• Cholesteatoma
• Complications of an ear infection (otitis media)
• To place a cochlear implant

Risks

• Changes in taste
• Dizziness
• Hearing loss
• Infection that persists or keeps returning
• Noises in the ear (tinnitus)
• Weakness of the face

References

Bennett M. Indications and technique in mastoidectomy. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. Dec 2006; 39(6): 1095-113.

Connell SS. Cochlear implants. Clin Geriatr Med. Aug 2006; 22(3): 677-86.