Depilation of the external auditory canal in transcanal and endaural otosurgery

Abstract

Introduction. Literature review search did not show enough information to answer the question concerning the need to remove hair in the external auditory canal as a part of preoperative preparation of the surgical field in middle ear surgery with endaural and transcanal approaches.Aim of the study. To substantiate the removal of hair from the external auditory canal during transcanal and endaural otosurgery.Materials and methods. A prospective randomized study included 2 groups. In the first group, tympanoplasty and stapedoplasty were performed via endaural approach with and without hair removal in the external auditory canal. The effect on the intraoperative overview and postoperative wound healing was assessed. Shunting of the tympanic cavity in the second group, with transcanal approach, have been performed under the control of a microscope and endoscope. The evaluation was done via a questionnaire, it was given to the doctor before and after hair removal separately. Postoperative inflammatory reaction was also assessed.Results. Postoperative wound healing of the external auditory canal in the first group were considered comparable between the main and the control group, and had no complications. In the second group, inflammation was absent in all patients. Hair removal significantly improve the visibility in endaural and transcanal approach.Conclusions. Hair removal from the external auditory canal increases the visibility of the surgical field and facilitates the work of an otosurgeon. It is especially recommended as a preoperative preparation, especially for transcanal surgical interventions on the middle ear under endoscope control.