Indications

Indications and preoperative planning are based on the following:

History.

Otomicroscopy, cleansing, smears for bacteriological analysis (if required).

Testing of eustachian tube patency, facial nerve function.

Test for fistula sign, spontaneous nystagmus, vestibular function.

Pure-tone threshold (hearing loss), speech audiometry, impedance audiometry.

Radiographic views (Schüller, Stenvers, high-resolution CT).

Local findings in the nose, nasopharyngeal, and paranasal sinuses.

Informed Consent

Otologic surgery requires an informed consent procedure, which should include the disclosure of rare risks and allow time for an informed decision:

Facial paralysis.

Meningitis.

Hearing loss or deafness.

Tinnitus.

Dizziness.

Disturbance of taste sensation.

Recurrent perforation.

Otorrhea.

Sensory disturbances and neuralgia about the ear.

Change in auricular shape, keloid formation.

Reoperation.

Other possible treatment options.

Success rates, postoperative care, and special instructions.

Preoperative Treatment