A stapedectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat a condition called otosclerosis, which is a type of hearing loss caused by abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear. During the procedure, a small bone called the stapes is removed and replaced with a prosthesis. The new prosthesis allows sound waves to travel through the ear and reach the inner ear, improving hearing. The surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their hearing. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved, and it is important to discuss these with your doctor before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Stapes surgery, also known as stapedectomy or stapedotomy, is performed to treat otosclerosis, a condition where abnormal bone growth in the middle ear prevents the stapes bone from vibrating properly, leading to hearing loss. Here's a general overview of how the procedure is typically done:
1. **Preparation**:
- The patient is given either local or general anesthesia.
- The ear is cleaned and draped to maintain a sterile environment.
2. **Access to the Middle Ear**:
- A small incision is made in the ear canal, or behind the ear, to expose the middle ear.
- The eardrum (tympanic membrane) is gently lifted to access the middle ear cavity.
3. **Removal of the Stapes Bone**:
- The surgeon examines the middle ear structures.
- The stapes superstructure is carefully removed, often using a laser or micro-instruments.
4. **Creating a Hole in the Footplate**:
- A small hole is made in the stapes footplate (stapedotomy) using a laser or drill. In some cases, the entire footplate is removed (stapedectomy).
5. **Inserting the Prosthesis**:
- A tiny prosthesis is inserted into the hole in the footplate.
- The other end of the prosthesis is attached to the incus, another middle ear bone, to re-establish the connection between the inner ear and the ossicles.
6. **Repositioning the Eardrum**:
- The eardrum is carefully repositioned back to its normal place.
- The incision in the ear canal or behind the ear is closed with sutures if necessary.
7. **Recovery**:
- The patient is usually observed for a short period before being allowed to go home the same day or the next day.
- Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and check for any complications.
Stapes surgery has a high success rate in improving hearing, but like any surgery, it carries risks, including infection, dizziness, taste disturbances, and hearing loss.