Systems and methods of performing transcanal ear surgery

Abstract

Systems and methods for performing transcanal ear surgery. A volume of fluid is maintained within the ear canal to provide a flooded environment. A cutting member of a cutting instrument is submerged and operated within the flooded environment to resect tissue within the ear. A reservoir system may be coupled to the patient to facilitate providing the flooded environment. The reservoir system at least partially surrounds the auricle of the ear in fluid-tight sealing engagement with the head of the patient. An irrigation pump and a suction source on one or both of the reservoir system and the cutting instrument are operated to provide the flooded environment. The reservoir system includes an access opening sized to receive one or more surgical instruments, for example, the cutting instrument and an endoscope. The flooded environment improves cooling of the surgical site and visualization of the surgical site from the endoscope.

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