Removal of cholesteatoma – effective treatment for bone erosion

At CPH Privathospital we offer specialised surgery for the removal of cholesteatoma, also known as “bone erosion”. A cholesteatoma is a serious condition in which dead skin cells accumulate in the middle ear, which can erode bone tissue and affect hearing. The condition can lead to persistent ear discharge, pain and, in the worst case, serious complications such as facial paralysis or meningitis.

Symptoms of cholesteatoma

• Reduced hearing
• Foul-smelling discharge from the ear
• Pain in the ear or temple
• Ear canal polyps

Treatment and operation

To avoid damage to the ear and surrounding structures, it is important to have the cholesteatoma removed by an operation. The operation, called mastoidectomy, removes the accumulated tissue through the bone behind the ear and attempts to restore normal hearing. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and typically lasts 1–2 hours.

After the operation

After the operation you will have a dressing around your head, and you may experience mild dizziness and pain, which can be treated with over-the-counter medication. A follow-up hearing test is performed a few months after the operation to assess the result.

Contact us for a preliminary examination

If you have symptoms of cholesteatoma, it is important to act quickly. Contact us for a preliminary examination and a tailored treatment plan.