Endoscopic Canalplasty - Exostoses Removal and Widening of the Auditory Canal
Endoscopic Canalplasty - the most advanced approach to treating exostoses and ear canal stenosis
No large incisions. Minimal trauma. Precise visualization. Complete restoration of function. Endoscopic canalplasty represents the pinnacle of modern ear surgery, providing a permanent solution to exostoses and ear canal narrowing with maximum tissue preservation and a significantly faster recovery.
Exostoses – invisible barriers to sound and ear health
Exostoses are insidious bony growths within the ear canal that develop gradually and often go unnoticed—until they begin to cause serious issues. They are particularly common in:
- swimmers and divers (commonly called "surfer’s ear")
- individuals regularly exposed to cold water
- surfers and water sports athletes
These abnormal bone formations cause progressive symptoms:
- early stage: water trapping after showering or swimming
- intermediate stage: recurring outer ear infections ("swimmer’s ear")
- advanced stage: sensation of blockage and progressive hearing loss
- final stage: complete canal occlusion with severe hearing loss (up to 60 dB)
Revolutionary endoscopic canalplasty
At St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, we use the most advanced technique for treating exostoses and ear canal stenosis – endoscopic canalplasty (meatoplasty) – which offers revolutionary benefits:
- minimally invasive approach – whenever possible, the surgery is performed directly through the ear canal, without external incisions
- enhanced visualization – modern 4K endoscopes provide clear, detailed views of all structures
- high precision – accurate removal of bony growths with minimal trauma to surrounding tissue
- tissue preservation – careful preservation of the ear canal skin for optimal reconstruction
- advanced instrumentation – high-frequency precision drills used for controlled bone removal
- proper canal widening – carefully sculpting the canal to ensure long-term patency
- reduced risk of complications – improved visibility minimizes intraoperative risks
- faster recovery and return to activities – reduced tissue damage means quicker healing, enabling patients to resume daily activities, including swimming and water sports, much sooner
Expertise in the hands of a leading specialist
Mislav Malić, M.D., Ph.D., a pioneer of endoscopic ear surgery in Croatia, performs this advanced technique using state-of-the-art endoscopic systems. His innovative approach allows for:
- accurate diagnosis and classification of exostoses
- selection of the optimal approach for each individual case
- careful preservation of the ear canal skin during surgery
- precise removal of bony growths with minimal damage to surrounding structures
- perfectly reshaped ear canal for long-term stable results
Transformative results and rapid recovery
Endoscopic canalplasty delivers impressive outcomes:
- immediate relief from water retention – no more fullness or moisture after water exposure
- elimination of recurrent infections – significantly reduced risk of “swimmer’s ear”
- full hearing restoration – dramatic improvement in auditory function
- long-term prevention of canal blockage – permanent solution to canal narrowing
Note: In cases of bilateral exostoses, surgery on the second ear is typically planned about six months after the first procedure to ensure optimal patient recovery.
Don’t let exostoses limit your enjoyment of water activities or compromise your hearing quality! Endoscopic canalplasty is the most advanced, safest and most effective way to permanently resolve this issue. Contact us and schedule your consultation today!
