A Closer Look at Endoscopic Ear Surgery

Is It Right for You?

With many otolaryngologists curious about endoscopic ear surgery, experienced EES surgeons say it’s likely worth pursuing if you already see a fair amount of ear cases and have some experience with endoscopes. But without those, it likely isn’t worth it.

Drs. Isaacson and Kutz began performing EES with the instruments they already had, but Dr. Isaacson recommended purchasing 3-millimeter-diameter endoscopes of 0 degrees and either 30 or 45 degrees, at 12 to 14 cm in length. Most centers will already have the video monitors and other equipment that’s necessary, but physicians will need to make sure they have a 3-chip camera.

Dr. Lee cautioned that EES procedures can’t be picked up instantly. “If you’ve had little to no experience using an endoscope to do any sort of otolaryngological procedure, then this wouldn’t be something you want to tackle,” he said. “Putting an endoscope in your hand doesn’t make it easier. It’s a skill set, and it can be difficult to learn how to pick it up at the beginning.”

Dr. Ashmead, just beginning to tackle EES cases after her recent training, believes the procedure is something general otolaryngologists should consider. “I think it’s always worthwhile to learn to use your current skills in a different way,” she said, “especially if it makes you feel more comfortable or more adept at procedures you’re already doing. We should be open to learning new ways of operating so we don’t get left behind.”

Thomas Collins is a freelance medical writer based in Florida.