Risk of thermal damage during transcanal endoscopic ear surgery

Česká verze

Authors: P. Beláková ¹ ; Richard Salzman ¹ ; M. Sněhota ² ; J. Vachutka ²
Authors place of work: Klinika otorinolaryngologie a chirurgie hlavy a krku LF UP a FN Olomouc ¹; Ústav lékařské bio fyziky, LF UP v Olomouci ²
Published in the journal: Otorinolaryngol Foniatr, 75, 2026, No. Ahead of Print, pp. 1-9.
Category: Přehledový článek
doi: https://doi.org/10.48095/ccorl2026-006

Summary

During transcanal endoscopic ear surgery, the light emitted from the endoscope heats the tympanic cavity. This heat has the potential to harm crucial structures of the middle and inner ear, as evidenced by in vitro, animal, and human surgical studies. This article reviews the research published to date on the potential thermal risks and damage incurred during endoscopic ear surgery. Our goal was to summarize the literature and suggest safety measures that can be routinely applied during endoscopic ear procedures. According to the published research papers, it is safer to use a smaller diameter endoscope (2.7 or 3 mm) connected to an LED light source. The light source should be set to the lowest output intensity that still allows the surgeon to safely perform the procedure. Regular use of suction and lavage is also recommended.

Keywords:

endoscopy – Middle ear – temperature – endoscopes – otologic surgical procedures

Zdroje

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