Description

Familiarity with Treatment

Total stapedectomy is a surgical procedure used to address conductive hearing loss caused by otosclerosis, a condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. The goal of the procedure is to restore the vibration of fluids within the cochlea, thereby increasing sound amplification and bringing hearing levels to acceptable thresholds.

Procedure

During total stapedectomy, the entire stapes bone is removed and replaced with a prosthesis to restore sound transmission into the inner ear. The procedure involves the use of microsurgical techniques to access the middle ear, remove the stapes, and place a prosthesis to facilitate sound conduction. The use of precise surgical instruments and techniques is essential to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues.

Who is it Suitable For?

Total stapedectomy is suitable for individuals with otosclerosis and significant conductive hearing loss due to abnormal bone growth in the middle ear. It may be considered in cases where the disease affects the entire stapes bone and when normal mobility of the ossicular chain cannot be achieved without the need for a prosthesis.

Who is it Not Suitable For?

Total stapedectomy may not be suitable for individuals with specific medical conditions or anatomical limitations that may affect the feasibility or safety of the procedure. A comprehensive evaluation by an otologic surgeon is necessary to determine the suitability for total stapedectomy.

Advantages

• Complete Restoration of Sound Conduction: Total stapedectomy aims to completely restore sound conduction by replacing the entire stapes bone with a prosthesis, leading to significant improvement in hearing outcomes.
• Precise Surgical Technique: The use of microsurgical techniques allows for precise removal of the stapes and placement of the prosthesis, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues and reducing the risk of postoperative complications.

Complications

Complications of total stapedectomy may include:

• Perilymph Leakage: Uncontrolled leakage of perilymph, the fluid that fills the inner ear, is a potential complication of the procedure.
• Inner Ear Trauma: There is a risk of trauma to inner ear structures during the procedure, which can lead to damage and potential hearing loss.
• Postoperative Vertigo: Some individuals may experience postoperative vertigo, although rates may vary based on the specific technique and approach used.

Preoperative Care

Preoperative care for total stapedectomy involves a comprehensive evaluation, including preoperative imaging, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of otosclerosis. This evaluation helps in determining the suitability for the procedure and identifying any potential anatomical considerations.

Postoperative Care

Following total stapedectomy, individuals should adhere to postoperative instructions provided by their healthcare team. This may include guidelines for wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions. Patients may also undergo postoperative audiological assessments to monitor hearing outcomes and identify any potential complications.

Total stapedectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at treating conductive hearing loss caused by otosclerosis by replacing the entire stapes bone with a prosthesis.