Conductive hearing loss

Question 1

Conductive hearing loss?

Answer 1

A problem transferring sound waves anywhere along the pathway through the outer ear, tympanic membrane (eardrum), or middle ear (ossicles)

Question 2

What can cause conductive hearing loss?

Answer 2

Fluid
TM perforation
Ossicular problem

Question 3

Management of conductive hearing loss?

Answer 3

Often delayed as polytrauma
May need facial nerve decompression , If no recovery and EMG studies
May need to manage CSF leak, most settle but may need repair
May need hearing restoration, Either hearing aid or ossiculoplasty

Question 4

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss?

Answer 4

Treat as emergency
Weber test
Steroids 1mg/kg and consider intratympanic treatment

Question 5

Foreign bodies?

Answer 5

Can usually wait until urgent clinic for removal
Except watch batteries – remove immediately
Live animals – drown with oil can be removed next day