Otectomy is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of the ear. Specifically, it refers to the partial or complete excision of the external ear or pinna. The term derives from the combination of "oto," which relates to the ear, and "ectomy," indicating the surgical removal of a body part or organ.
Otectomy is an uncommon procedure that is primarily performed for therapeutic purposes, typically as a treatment for malignant or benign lesions of the external ear or as a measure to manage severe infections or traumatic injuries to the ear. The surgical technique involves making an incision around the affected area and removing the affected portion of the ear. Depending on the extent of the condition, either a partial otectomy, where a portion of the ear is removed, or a complete otectomy, where the entire ear is excised, may be performed.
Post-surgery, patients may experience temporary discomfort, swelling, and even changes in hearing abilities. However, advances in surgical techniques and post-operative care have significantly improved patient outcomes in recent years. Additionally, there are various reconstructive techniques available to restore the appearance of the ear after otectomy, such as ear prosthesis or plastic surgery.
Overall, otectomy is a surgical procedure utilized in selected cases to remove diseased or damaged portions of the external ear, aiming to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and enhance the patient's overall wellbeing.
