I recently had my 4th shunt placement and they tend to last about 3-5 years the recovery time I have expereinced is 2-6 weeks. The first week is the toughest. It takes about 4-6 days to truly get to the point you can hold your head up stedliy for long period of time. After that it is a slow healing process to totally feel back to normal.
The endolymphatic shunt drains to the mastoid.
The sigmoid sinus is then collapsed with gentle pressure. The surgeon exposes the endolymphatic sac and makes an incision in it in order to insert the shunt.
michelle.white@memorialhosp.org
An endolymphatic shunt is a surgical procedure used to treat Meniere's disease, a condition of the inner ear that causes vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. The shunt is placed to divert excess fluid in the inner ear, reducing symptoms and restoring balance.
Endolymphatic shunt surgery is typically performed by an otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon. This procedure is often indicated for patients with Meniere's disease, as it aims to relieve pressure in the inner ear by creating a shunt to facilitate fluid drainage. The surgeon specializes in managing disorders of the ear and related structures, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients undergoing this procedure.
In this procedure, the surgeon inserts a small tube or valve to drain excess endolymph fluid into a space near the mastoid bone and/or removes some of the bone surrounding the endolymphatic sac in order to reduce pressure on it
discomfort in the operated ear and the throat (from the breathing tube inserted during surgery), which can be controlled by such analgesic medications as meperidine
It has been reported to achieve complete or substantial control of vertigo in 81% of patients, with significant improvement in hearing in about 20%
Labyrinthectomy is more successful than other surgeries in eliminating vertigo, but the patient suffers complete and permanent loss of hearing in the operated ear
Recovery time after having a shunt placed in the ear, often for conditions like ear infections or fluid buildup, typically ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks. Patients may experience some discomfort and drainage initially, but most can resume regular activities within a few days. It's important to follow the surgeon's post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing. Always consult with the healthcare provider for personalized recovery guidance.
In long shunt the shunt field winding is in parallel to both generator and series field. In short shunt the shunt field is in parallel to generator only.
After having a shunt placed, it's generally recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks before flying, but this can vary depending on individual circumstances and the type of shunt. It's essential to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your recovery and overall health. They can assess any potential risks and provide guidance tailored to your situation.