Atticotomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the lateral epitympanic wall in the middle ear.
This procedure is performed to:
- Improve Visualization: An atticotomy allows the surgeon to better see the structures within the middle ear and the attic (epitympanum), which is the upper part of the middle ear cavity.
- Preserve the Canal Wall: By improving access, atticotomy aims to increase the chances of preserving the posterior canal wall during middle ear surgery. This is generally considered desirable as it maintains the natural anatomy and reduces the risk of certain complications associated with canal wall down techniques.
In essence, atticotomy provides a more direct route for surgical intervention in the middle ear while attempting to minimize disruption to the ear canal.
