Malaysia's first awake mastoid and eardrum repair surgery completed

2026-06-19
Malaysia's first awake mastoid and eardrum repair surgery completed

Johor Specialist Hospital has performed Malaysia’s first awake mastoid and eardrum repair surgery, led by specialist Dr Shankar Ramasundram.

A medical milestone in Johor

The medical team at Johor Specialist Hospital (JSH) has achieved a significant breakthrough by successfully completing Malaysia's first awake mastoid and eardrum repair surgery. The procedure was spearheaded by Dr Shankar Ramasundram, a Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist, working alongside a highly skilled surgical team at the hospital facility.

This achievement marks a notable advancement in the country's medical capabilities, specifically within the specialized field of Otorhinolaryngology, which encompasses the study and treatment of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures.

The significance of the procedure

Completing a mastoid and eardrum repair while the patient remains awake is a complex task that distinguishes this case from standard surgical practices. Typically, such intricate ear surgeries are performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient stability and comfort.

The successful execution of this awake surgery highlights the technical expertise available at Johor Specialist Hospital and underscores the evolving landscape of specialised medical procedures in the region. Ear-related conditions involving the mastoid bone and eardrum often require delicate intervention to prevent long-term hearing loss or chronic infection. By performing these intricate repairs under these specific conditions, the medical team has demonstrated a high level of precision and advanced surgical skill, providing new options for patient care in Malaysia.

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