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Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2015; 19(02): 183-186
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1386505
Case Report
Thieme Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Intralabyrinthine Penetrating Ventilation Tube with Preservation of Hearing: An Unusual Clinical Situation

Tantely Razafimahefa Raoelina
1   Department of Otolaryngology and Skull Base Surgery, University Hospital Nord, Marseille, France
,
Maya Elziere
1   Department of Otolaryngology and Skull Base Surgery, University Hospital Nord, Marseille, France
,
Justin Michel
2   Department of Otolaryngology and Skull Base Surgery, La Timone University Hospital, Marseille, France
,
Arnaud Devèze
1   Department of Otolaryngology and Skull Base Surgery, University Hospital Nord, Marseille, France
3   Laboratory of Applied Biomechanics IFSTTAR, Aix Marseille University, Bd Pierre Dramard, Marseille, France
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

05 May 2014

07 June 2014

Publication Date:
12 December 2014 (online)

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Abstract

Introduction Traumatic perilymphatic fistula is not a rare event with regards to sport activities or traffic accident. However, iatrogenic damage to the inner ear can occur following the common use of grommets and ventilation tube insertion.

Objectives To report an unusual case of insertion of aeration tube into the vestibule trough the stapes footplate.

Resumed Report A 62-year-old woman experienced iatrogenic penetration into the vestibule from a ventilation tube inserted for retraction pocket management. The event was misdiagnosed both by the surgeon and by the emergency room physicians, leading to delay in the management. However, preservation of the hearing function lasted for 2 weeks prior to deafness, thanks to the valve of Bast, which preserved the cochlear fluid.

Conclusion This case gives us the opportunity to stress the need for systematic clinical examination of traumatic injury to the ear and to recommend performing multiplanar millimetric computed tomography scan with accurate interpretation. Traumatic injuries should be referred to a dedicated traumatic emergency referral center.

Keywords

labyrinth - trauma - tympanic membrane rupture - perilymph - stapes surgery
 

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