Discover the rare condition of superior canal dehiscence syndrome, where people hear their own body sounds. Hear firsthand experiences from individuals like Ann Miller and Bruce who cope with debilitating symptoms. Explore the surgical treatment and its potential to provide relief from the condition. Join us in the operating room for a detailed account of the procedure.
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Quick takeaways
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome is a rare condition that can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health.
The current treatment for Superior Canal Dehiscence involves surgical intervention with a high success rate and improved techniques over the years.
Deep dives
Overview of Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome is a rare condition that can have a profound impact on a person's life and mental health. The syndrome is characterized by hearing sounds like the rush of air in the lungs, rubbing of ribs, the heartbeat, and blood moving within one's own body. It can also cause symptoms such as vertigo, dizziness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to noise. Due to the bizarre and rare nature of the condition, many doctors are unfamiliar with it, leading to misdiagnosis or disbelief from patients. It usually takes several years for patients to receive a proper diagnosis. The long journey to diagnosis often leads to emotional distress and affects daily functioning.
Understanding Superior Canal Dehiscence
Superior Canal Dehiscence refers to a condition where there is a hole or thinning of the bone that separates the brain from the balance system within the ear. This allows sound, pressure, and physiological noise from within the body to escape and be heard more loudly. Patients with this condition may hear their eyeballs moving, experience noise in response to eye movements and walking, and have heightened awareness of their own voice. The exact cause of Superior Canal Dehiscence is unknown, but it is believed that some individuals may be born with thinner bone in the ear, and incidents over time can lead to the bone disappearing, resulting in the syndrome.
Treatment and Surgery for Superior Canal Dehiscence
The current treatment for Superior Canal Dehiscence involves surgical intervention. During the surgery, a section of the skull is cut out to access the affected ear. The bone over the superior canal is examined and repaired by plugging it with bone wax and applying bone cement to recreate the protective barrier that was missing. The success rate of the surgery is high, and most patients experience a significant improvement in their symptoms. However, there is a slight risk of hearing loss associated with the surgery. Over the years, surgical techniques and materials have improved, making the procedure less complicated and more effective.