Endoscopic Vs. Microscopic Ear Surgery In Chronic Otitis Media Patients A Prospective Study

Original Article

Abstract

Background:Chronic otitis media (COM) is a persistent inflammation of the middle ear that commonly leads to hearing loss and often requires surgical intervention. Tympanoplasty can be performed using either endoscopic or microscopic techniques, both of which may differ in terms of graft success, hearing outcomes, and postoperative recovery.

Objective:To compare surgical outcomes between endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty in patients with COM, focusing on graft success rate, hearing improvement, and postoperative recovery.

Methods:A total of 100 patients diagnosed with COM were included and randomly allocated into two groups: endoscopic tympanoplasty and microscopic tympanoplasty. Outcomes assessed included graft uptake success, hearing gain (in decibels), postoperative complications, and recovery time. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test for categorical variables and paired t-test for continuous variables, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results:The mean age of participants was 42.3 ± 10.4 years. The endoscopic group showed a graft success rate of 94% compared to 89% in the microscopic group. Mean hearing improvement was significantly higher in the endoscopic group (12.5 dB) compared to the microscopic group (10.2 dB) (p = 0.034). Additionally, patients undergoing endoscopic surgery demonstrated faster recovery and fewer postoperative complications.

Conclusion:Both endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty are effective in managing COM. However, the endoscopic approach offers superior hearing outcomes, higher graft success, and faster recovery, making it a favorable option when appropriate.