otologie

Otologie, or otology, is the medical specialty focused on the anatomy, function, and diseases of the ear and related parts of the auditory and vestibular systems. It is traditionally a subspecialty of otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). The field encompasses the external, middle, and inner ear, as well as the nerve pathways involved in hearing and balance.

Common concerns addressed in otology include infections of the outer and middle ear (otitis externa and otitis media), cholesteatoma, otosclerosis, presbycusis (age-related hearing loss), sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo or other balance disorders. It also covers tumors such as vestibular schwannoma and the management of hearing loss through rehabilitation, including cochlear implants and other implantable devices, as well as surgical procedures like tympanoplasty and stapedectomy.

Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical examination and specialized tests. Typical assessments include otoscopy, audiometry (hearing tests), tympanometry, and imaging with CT or MRI when indicated. Vestibular testing, such as videonystagmography or caloric testing, may be used to evaluate balance disorders.

Treatment ranges from medical therapy (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory or intratympanic medications) to surgical interventions aimed at restoring or preserving hearing and correcting structural issues. Hearing rehabilitation may involve hearing aids or cochlear implants, and balance disorders are managed with medical treatment or vestibular rehabilitation.

Practitioners are ENT surgeons with otology training, often collaborating with audiologists and other allied health professionals. Advances in imaging, microsurgery, and implantable devices continue to influence outcomes in otology, particularly for hearing restoration and vestibular disorders.