Labyrinthectomy: Surgical Removal of the Inner Ear Labyrinth

Labyrinthectomy is the surgical destruction or removal of the labyrinth (inner ear structures: semicircular canals, cochlea). It is a last-resort treatment for intractable vertigo, dizziness, or hearing loss unresponsive to conservative therapy.

Procedure

• Incision behind the ear (postauricular) or transcanal.
• Labyrinth removed via mechanical extraction, laser, or chemical cauterization.

Outcome

• Eliminates vestibular input from that ear, relieving vertigo.
• Permanent hearing loss in the operated ear.

Decision requires thorough discussion with an otologist/neurotologist.