Post-Surgery Dizziness After Cholesteatoma Surgery: Causes and Concerns

After undergoing cholesteatoma surgery, I have been experiencing persistent dizziness?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu! My grandmother underwent surgery for a cholesteatoma in May.
She is 75 years old, and since the surgery over a month ago, she has been experiencing dizziness.
Last week, due to her persistent discomfort, we arranged for her to be hospitalized for over a week.
However, her dizziness has not improved.
The hospital doctors mentioned that her dizziness is due to cervical vascular stenosis combined with anesthesia during the surgery.
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Hsu, what are some potential complications from a cholesteatoma surgery? Could my grandmother's dizziness be related to the surgery?

Adrain, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/07

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

Although a cholesteatoma is a benign tumor, it poses significant risks to the body as it can continuously expand and destroy surrounding tissues.
Therefore, it is generally advisable to remove it as soon as it is detected, regardless of the stage.
Regarding the dizziness you mentioned after surgery, the hospital has provided one possible explanation.
The effects of the cholesteatoma itself could also be a contributing factor, as sometimes the balance system may be affected by the tumor.
Additionally, it may relate to the surgical technique chosen at the time of the operation.
However, since I am not your surgeon and do not have access to your specific medical information, I can only make general inferences.
Any physician qualified to perform cholesteatoma surgery should have sufficient knowledge to address your concerns.
I recommend discussing this further with your attending physician, as they will be able to provide you with a more comprehensive understanding and hopefully a positive outcome.

Reply Date: 2010/06/07

More Info

After cholesteatoma surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience dizziness or vertigo, especially in the weeks following the procedure. Cholesteatoma surgery, which involves the removal of an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear, can affect the delicate structures of the ear and balance system. Given your grandmother's age and her pre-existing condition of cervical vascular narrowing, it is essential to consider multiple factors that could contribute to her dizziness.

Firstly, the surgical procedure itself can lead to temporary disturbances in balance. The inner ear, which plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium, may be affected during surgery. This can result in post-operative dizziness or a sensation of spinning (vertigo). In many cases, these symptoms improve over time as the body adjusts and heals.

Secondly, the use of anesthesia during the surgery can also contribute to dizziness. Anesthesia can have various effects on the central nervous system, and some patients may experience lingering effects, particularly older adults who may metabolize drugs differently. This could lead to prolonged dizziness or disorientation.

Additionally, your grandmother's pre-existing condition of cervical vascular narrowing is a significant factor. Reduced blood flow to the brain can exacerbate feelings of dizziness, especially when combined with the stress of surgery and recovery. It is crucial for her healthcare team to monitor her vascular health closely, as this could be a contributing factor to her ongoing symptoms.

In terms of long-term effects or complications from cholesteatoma surgery, while many patients recover well, some may experience persistent issues such as hearing loss, balance problems, or recurrent infections. It is essential to follow up with her ENT specialist to assess her recovery and address any ongoing symptoms. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to evaluate the condition of her inner ear and surrounding structures.

To manage her dizziness, it may be helpful for her to engage in vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which is designed to help patients regain balance and reduce dizziness through specific exercises. Additionally, ensuring she stays hydrated and avoids sudden movements can help alleviate her symptoms.

In summary, while dizziness after cholesteatoma surgery can be a common occurrence, it is essential to consider all contributing factors, including the effects of anesthesia and pre-existing vascular conditions. Continuous monitoring and communication with her healthcare providers are crucial to ensure her recovery progresses positively. If her symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation and intervention may be necessary to address any underlying issues.

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