Piezoelectric removal of exostoses of the external auditory canal

Introduction In this study, the safety and handling of a micro-oscillating piezoelectric instrument was compared with that of a rotating drill when used for removal of exostoses of the external auditory canal.

Method Canaloplasty was performed with a piezo instrument in six consecutive cases, using both osteotomy and osteoplastic for bone removal. Characteristics of the novel instrument were compared to those of the classic technique using rotating drill by two surgeons with differing surgical experience with the two instruments.

Results It was possible to completely preserve the skin of the external auditory canal without causing damage to the eardrum or inner ear in all cases. In particular, close to the limbus and lateral process of the malleus, bone removal with the piezo instrument proved to be much more precise, easy and safe in comparison to the rotating drill. The duration of surgery with the piezo instrument is longer and is dependent on the experience of the surgeon.

Conclusion In canaloplasty, the piezoelectric technique, can potentially reduce the risk of accidental slippage and subsequent thermal and mechanical damage to the surrounding soft tissue, particularly when in the hands of an experienced surgeon. The novel instrument with its atraumatic function at the transition between soft tissue and bone is superior to the rotating drill, particularly with exostoses of the roof or anterior wall of the external auditory canal.

Poster-PDF A-1406.PDF

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020