Stapes Surgery
Stapes Surgery
Stapes surgery, also known as stapedotomy or stapedectomy, depending on the technique employed, is a surgical procedure performed to treat hearing loss caused by otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a condition in which the bone in the middle ear (the stapes bone) becomes fixed and cannot vibrate properly, leading to conductive hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is not transmitted efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear.
Causes
- Otosclerosis Correction
– Stapedectomy addresses hearing loss resulting from otosclerosis by replacing the fixed stapes bone with a prosthetic device. - Improvement in Hearing
– The primary goal is to improve hearing by restoring the normal movement of the stapes bone and allowing sound transmission in the middle ear. - Middle Ear Access
– The surgery involves making an incision to access the middle ear, allowing the surgeon to work on the stapes bone. - Stapes Removal
– The fixed stapes bone is carefully removed during the procedure. - Prosthetic Implantation
– A small, artificial stapes bone is then implanted to restore proper sound transmission.
Treatment
- Objective
– Involves the removal of the stapes bone and replacement with a prosthesis to improve sound transmission. - Anesthesia
– Typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. - Incision
– Small incision is made behind the ear to access the middle ear. - Recovery
– Patients may experience temporary dizziness and hearing improvement is gradual. - Success Rate
– Generally high success rate in improving hearing.
Expectation
- Improved Hearing
- Professional Evaluation
- Success Rate
- Long-Term Benefits
- Postoperative Care
Downtime
Immediate Postoperative Period:
1. Patients typically experience some discomfort, pain, or mild dizziness immediately after the surgery.
2. It is common to have a dressing or packing in the ear.
3. Patients may need to rest and avoid strenuous activities during the initial days.
