Name a complication of surgery for a retracted tympanic membrane.

Surgery for a retracted tympanic membrane can lead to various complications, and cholesteatoma is a particularly significant one. A cholesteatoma is an abnormal skin growth that can develop in the middle ear, often as a result of chronic ear conditions or surgical interventions that leave behind or create pockets of skin that may become infected or enlarge over time.

When a tympanic membrane is retracted, there is a risk that the changes to the ear structure could promote the formation of this disease. If the surgical procedure does not completely restore the anatomy or if there is residual negative pressure, it may contribute to the accumulation of skin cells and debris, leading to a cholesteatoma. This growth can destroy nearby structures in the middle ear, leading to more severe complications if not addressed.

While hearing loss, infection, and vertigo are all possible after ear surgery, the formation of a cholesteatoma stands out as a specific and serious complication directly related to the surgical management of a retracted tympanic membrane. It can lead to extensive damage and require further surgical intervention, demonstrating the importance of careful surgical technique and postoperative monitoring.