Postoperative Considerations

Table of Contents:

Auditory Canal

After precise and careful wound closure, an ear speculum should be used to inspect the auditory canal and tympanic membrane to ensure that there was no intraoperative accumulation of irrigation fluid, blood, or iatrogenic perforations unintentionally created in the auditory canal or the tympanic membrane. The results of this inspection should be documented in the operative notes. Blood clots should be removed with gentle, warm saline irrigation and careful suction. Instillation of anti- biotic/steroid otic drops and occlusion of the external auditory meatus with a cotton pledget is recommended to decrease the potential for the development of infection and/or inflammation of the auditory canal and/or tympanic membrane. If a perforation of the auditory canal or tympanic membrane is discovered during this examination, consultation with an otolaryngologist is advised to determine the best management options [30].

Pressure Dressing

A pressure dressing should be applied for a minimum of 8-12 h to aid in minor hemostasis and assist in the reduction of edema.
 
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