Dr. Shyam Kalyan. N
Otolaryngology (E.N.T)
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I underwent a cholesteatoma removal surgery in my right inner and middle ear, extending to my brain dura 10 years ago. A part of the mastoid was removed to help the skin debris shed naturally, and I have been free of cholesteatoma since then. I have a six-month follow-up with my ENT specialist to remove any remnant skin debris from my ear. The procedure usually takes around half an hour. The debris removal through pulling or suctioning is so painful to the point where I start yelling and crying. My doctor suggested applying mineral oil a week before each visit and said that it is likely to have minimal results. I understand the need to perform the procedure, but I would like to know if there are options like an anesthetic to make the process less painful. I am currently not under any medications. Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have read your query and understand it. You seem to have had a canal wall down surgery (surgery to remove cholesteatoma, which is an abnormal ear growth or ear cyst behind the eardrum). The mastoid bowl (a cavity formed after the surgery due to removal of the mastoid cells) formed after this is supposed to be self-cleansing. 1) In your case, Benzocaine 20 % spray or Lignocaine 10 % spray (anesthetic spray to temporarily numb certain areas before performing a procedure) is helpful. It will reduce the pain and discomfort to some extent. However, the spray will coat only the wax and not the nerve endings deeper. So the effect of an anesthetic spray will not be that well. 2)We can try a three-monthly visit to the ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist. Then the wax buildup will be half of what we encounter now, and the spray will work better as the wax will not be as thick as now. 3) I suggest using the mineral oil for a few days before the visit and on the day of the visit, apply Benzocaine or Lignocaine drops or jelly into the ear multiple times a day before the procedure. This will anesthetize as well as loosen the crusts. I hope this helps.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Otolaryngology (E.N.T)
Related Questions
Which conditions require completely removing the outer and inner ear?
Can I use earbuds to remove ear wax?
What foods to avoid during ear problem?
Is it safe to remove a sebaceous cyst surgically?
Why is a lot of earwax coming out of my baby's right ear?
I am suffering from wisdom tooth pain. Is it mandatory to visit a dentist?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
