Encountering a high jugular bulb during ear surgery

Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2017 Jan;99(1):36-37. doi: 10.1308/rcsann.2016.0290. Epub 2016 Sep 23.

Abstract

Encounters with jugular bulb abnormalities during ear surgery are a rare but recognised problem. A high riding jugular bulb is present in 10%-15% of patients and its variable position within the temporal bone can lead to problems as brisk venous haemorrhage can result if the bulb is inadvertently opened. The case of a 52-year-old woman with a central tympanic membrane perforation who underwent elective endaural myringoplasty and experienced brisk bleeding on raising the tympanomeatal flap is presented.

Keywords: Hemostasis; Jugular vein; Myringoplasty.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Blood Loss, Surgical / prevention & control
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Otorrhea / surgery*
  • Female
  • Hemostasis, Surgical / methods
  • Humans
  • Jugular Veins / abnormalities*
  • Jugular Veins / injuries
  • Middle Aged
  • Myringoplasty / methods
  • Tympanic Membrane Perforation / surgery*