End Stage Ear Disease Total Ear Canal Ablation

Total ear canal ablation is the only answer to end stage ears. The pain and discomfort can be eliminated and the animals have very different attitudes following surgery. They will be deaf, but most owners report decreased hearing if not total deafness prior to surgery. That being said all dogs do very well in a home environment. Owners report they hear the door bell and often respond to their name even after bilateral TECAs. There is evidence that sound waves move through soft tissue and bone. We must still be very careful with outdoor activity and they should be in an enclosed yard or on a leash when out and about.

Facial nerve paralysis is a complication that may worry about. It is rare but when it does occur it is a non clinical issue. The third eyelid does a good job of lubricating the eye and the slight upper lip drop is almost non noticeable. The relief from the pain and discomfort of the disease more than compensates the animal and owner for any facial nerve issues that may occur.