Intraoperative thermal safety of endoscopic ear surgery utilizing a holder

Stationary use of endoscopes with 3 mm and smaller calipers without irrigation or aspiration, the heat in the middle ear would appear to be safe, and at a level that does not cause thermal trauma to tissue. The present study demonstrates that frequent aspiration or intermittent irrigation may prevent potential thermal damage, even in procedures performed using endoscopes of a 4 mm caliper. Light intensity settings of 50% can be adopted as a further safety measure against potential thermal risk without compromising visual acuity.