Post-Operative Care  Following Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty Surgery

Instructions for Post-Operative Care  Following Mastoidectomy and Tympanoplasty Surgery

Introduction

Thank you for choosing [Your Hospital Name]. Your surgery was performed to improve your ear health and restore function. To ensure a smooth recovery, please follow these post-operative instructions carefully. Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

General Post-Operative Instructions

1. Activity

  • Avoid strenuous physical activities for at least 2–3 weeks to allow proper healing.
  • Avoid heavy lifting, bending over, or sudden head movements, which can increase pressure in the ear.
  • Rest with your head elevated (use extra pillows) to minimize swelling and improve drainage.

2. Pain Management

  • Mild pain and discomfort are normal after surgery. Use prescribed pain medications as directed.
  • Avoid over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen unless instructed, as they may increase the risk of bleeding.

3. Dressing and Wound Care

  • Keep the ear dressing or bandage dry and clean. Do not remove it unless instructed by your surgeon.
  • If you notice excessive bleeding, drainage, or foul odor from the wound, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Ear and Hearing Care

1. Hearing Changes

  • Temporary changes in hearing are common after surgery due to packing material in the ear. Do not worry; this typically improves as healing progresses.

2. Avoid Water Exposure

  • Prevent water from entering the ear. Use a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly in your outer ear while showering to keep the area dry.
  • Avoid swimming or submerging your head in water until cleared by your doctor.

3. Avoid Straining Activities

  • Refrain from blowing your nose forcefully for at least 4–6 weeks to prevent pressure changes in the ear.
  • If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to reduce ear pressure.

Diet and Hydration

  • Resume a normal diet as tolerated. Start with light, bland foods if nausea is present.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine for a week after surgery, as these can interfere with recovery.

Follow-Up Care

1. Medication

  • Take all prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • Use eardrops (if prescribed) as instructed, ensuring they are administered gently into the ear.

2. Follow-Up Visits

  • Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled on 3rd, 8th and 15th day following surgery.
  • On 3rd day, dressing will be removed to inspect the wound.
  • On 8th day, sutures will be removed.
  • On 15th day, ear pack will be removed.
  • Ear cleaning will be done after 5 weeks following surgery.
  • Later visits are as and when necessary.

3. Recognizing Complications

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication.
  • Persistent dizziness or vertigo.
  • Excessive drainage or bleeding from the ear.
  • Signs of infection, such as fever or swelling.

Special Instructions

1. Tympanoplasty Specific

  • Avoid air travel for at least 4–6 weeks, as changes in air pressure can affect healing.
  • Do not insert anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs or earbuds, without medical approval.

2. Mastoidectomy Specific

  • Mild swelling behind the ear or at the incision site is normal.
  • If a drain was placed, follow your surgeon’s instructions on its care and removal.

Recovery Timeline

  • First Week: You may experience mild discomfort and drainage. Follow pain management and wound care instructions.
  • 2–4 Weeks: Gradual improvement in hearing and reduced swelling. Resume light activities.
  • 4–6 Weeks: Most patients can resume normal activities with clearance from their doctor.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or notice any unusual symptoms, contact:

  • Karnataka ENT Hospital & Research Center (R)
  • Address: #29, Bheema Samdura Road, Davalagiri Extension, 2nd Stage, Chitradurga, 577501, Karnataka.
  • Phone: +91-94835-19988.
  • Website: www.kenthospitals.com

For emergencies, please visit the nearest hospital or call +91-94835-19988.

Resources

  1. American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNS): www.entnet.org
  2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD): www.nidcd.nih.gov
  3. British Tinnitus Association (BTA): www.tinnitus.org.uk