New marsupialization technique in endolymphatic sac surgery

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to describe and evaluate the results of a new technique in endolymphatic sac decompression surgery. METHODS: Forty‐three patients with intractable unilateral Meniere's disease were selected. Endolymphatic sac was identified after simple mastoidectomy, and its lateral layer was incised, using a sickle knife. Outer layer of the sac was turned around and placed under the anterior bony border. RESULTS: Mean duration of the follow‐up was 24 months. Mean tinnitus handicap index, pure tone average (PTA) on thresholds at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz, mean speech reception threshold, mean speech discrimination score, hearing stage, and mean vertigo score before and after surgery were evaluated. CONCLUSION: The new marsupialization technique with anterior bony border is a safe and effective way to improve tinnitus, vertigo, and ear fullness among these patients. According to PTA and hearing stage, this surgery can control progressive hearing loss. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3