Evaluation
Medical professionals have a variety of tests at their disposal to diagnose and evaluate cholesteatomas. The first step is a visual examination of the eardrum using an otoscope, followed by a tuning fork test to assess conductive hearing loss. An audiogram is then conducted to measure the extent of hearing loss, while a tympanogram can indicate if there is a perforation in the eardrum. To further evaluate the condition, an MRI scan is performed to visualize the soft tissue in the middle ear and detect any recurrent or residual cholesteatoma tissue. Additionally, a CT scan of the temporal bone can reveal any bone erosion or other damage that may be present.
Cholesteatoma Surgery: A Necessity
When it comes to cholesteatomas, surgical intervention is often unavoidable. The removal procedure typically involves eliminating the cholesteatoma from not only the eardrum but also the middle ear and the area behind the eardrum. Due to the complexity of the condition, multiple surgeries are frequently necessary. This is primarily because completely eradicating all the skin cells and other tissues within the cyst at once can be incredibly challenging. Furthermore, additional surgeries may be required to monitor and prevent recurrence. It is not uncommon for the growths to expand between surgeries or for existing cysts to conceal hidden growths that become apparent upon examination.