A little girl who suffers from a painful loss of hearing has become the first patient to have laser-assisted ear surgery at an Oxford hospital.

Polly Keedwell, five, underwent a three hour procedure at the Manor Hospital as part of her treatment for Cholsteatoma, a chronic ear infection caused by skin being trapped behind the ear drum.

The operation means that Polly, from Lewknor, is now free of pain and her hearing has been improved.

It was the first time the procedure has been carried out in Oxfordshire, after the hospital invested in new laser-surgery equipment.

Ear, nose and throat surgeon James Ramsden, who carried out the operation, said: "The precision of the laser allows us to remove the infection completely which greatly lowers the risk of any infection coming back.  

"Polly’s ear is now dry, she is free of pain and discharge and her hearing is better than it was. 

"She will undergo a second operation, in a year’s time, to improve the quality of her hearing."

Following the operation Polly was invited into the hospital's reception area to meet Nuffy Bear, who sits there during the dedicated monthly 'Paediatric Week' when only under 16s are admitted for surgery and specialist treatments.

Speaking after the operation, Polly said: "I feel much better now and love Nuffy Bear."

Her mum Emma Keedwell said: "We are just so relieved that James Ramsden was able to identify the problem and treat the situation so quickly at the hospital. 

"It has been a very worrying time and we are so delighted with how well Polly has recovered from this operation.”

"Our thanks go to the whole team at The Manor who have really looked after us throughout the whole process extremely well. 

"It has undoubtedly made a real difference to our family life and put a smile back on Polly's face."