Dr Lalit Kiran Saini

Stapedectomy

Stapedectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring hearing loss caused by otosclerosis, a condition where abnormal bone growth within the middle ear interferes with sound transmission. This delicate procedure involves the removal of the stapes bone and its replacement with a prosthetic device, allowing sound vibrations to reach the inner ear more effectively. Here's an overview of the procedure:

Diagnosis and Evaluation:
- Otosclerosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and hearing tests.
- Audiograms and imaging studies such as CT scans are used to assess the extent of damage and plan the surgery.

Preoperative Preparation:
- Patients undergo a thorough preoperative evaluation to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
- Discussions with the surgical team address expectations, risks, and potential complications.
Surgical Procedure:
- Stapedectomy is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on patient and surgeon preference.
- The surgeon accesses the middle ear through the ear canal, often employing a microscope for precision.
- The stapes bone, which is immobilized by abnormal bone growth, is carefully removed.
- A small incision is made in the oval window of the inner ear, and a prosthetic device (often made of titanium) is placed to restore sound transmission.
Postoperative Care:
- Patients are typically observed for a short period after surgery to monitor for immediate complications.
- Recovery at home involves keeping the ear dry and avoiding activities that could increase pressure in the ear.
- Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess healing and monitor hearing improvement.
Potential Risks and Complications:
- While stapedectomy is generally safe, there are risks such as infection, hearing deterioration, and balance issues.
- Rare but serious complications include damage to the facial nerve or inner ear structures.
Expected Outcomes:
- Most patients experience significant improvement in hearing following a successful stapedectomy.
- Hearing gains are often noticeable soon after surgery, although some may continue to improve over time.
- Stapedectomy can greatly enhance quality of life by restoring the ability to communicate effectively and enjoy daily activities.