Advanced Mastoid Care
Focused diagnosis and treatment for mastoid and surrounding middle ear disease.
The Role of the Mastoid Bone
The mastoid is the bony area located behind the ear. It contains air-filled spaces that connect with the middle ear. Because of this connection, infections in the middle ear can extend into the mastoid. Conditions such as cholesteatoma can also spread through the mastoid and affect surrounding structures.
When Mastoiditis Develops
Acute mastoiditis is an infection involving the mastoid air cells, usually developing as a complication of acute otitis media. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and redness behind the ear. Treatment can involve intravenous antibiotics and, when necessary, surgical drainage through a mastoidectomy.
Chronic Mastoid Problems
Chronic mastoid disease is most often linked to cholesteatoma or chronic suppurative otitis media. Ongoing infection and inflammation can gradually damage the mastoid air cells and nearby structures. When this occurs, surgical treatment with a mastoidectomy is typically necessary.
Mastoidectomy and Surgical Care
Mastoidectomy is performed to remove diseased tissue from the mastoid. It is commonly used to treat cholesteatoma, chronic ear infections involving the mastoid, and complications related to ear disease. The surgical approach, including canal-wall-up or canal-wall-down mastoidectomy, depends on the extent of disease and the goals of treatment.
Expertise in Complex Mastoid Surgery
Mastoid procedures can be technically demanding, particularly when surgery is being performed after a previous operation. My fellowship training in neurotology and skull base surgery provides specialized expertise in complex mastoid procedures.