Stapedectomy (Middle Ear Surgery for Hearing Loss)

Introduction

Hearing impairment can limit the quality of life and, in turn, the daily use of communication. To reverse hearing loss in otosclerosis patients, surgeons have targeted a disease (otosclerosis) with its consequence pathological bonification that blocks sound to the middle ear for a surgery called stapedectomy. This extremely low-morbidity surgery puts the stapes bone in a new position; it enhances hearing and decreases hearing aid usage.

What is a staphectomy?

Stapedectomy is an otologic surgical operation whereby the stapes are shifted from the middle ear and substituted by an endoluminal prosthesis. One of the three small bones of the middle ear, the stapes, plays a role in signal amplification of sound periodicities to produce oscillations in the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss is characterized by an impedance that is created by blocking the flow of sound waves because of otosclerosis; it becomes clogged or obstructed (i.e., the laminar, efficient movement of sound waves takes place in tissue).

This technique enables acoustic conduction and the data illustrate substantial hearing enhancement in most patients.

Why is Stapedectomy Needed?

Stapedectomy is recommended for individuals experiencing: Stapedectomy is recommended for individuals experiencing:

1. Otosclerosis: A condition where abnormal bone growth restricts stapes movement.
2. Conductive Hearing Loss: When sound cannot effectively travel through the middle ear.
3. Hearing Aid Dependence: Patients who need a definitive solution to amplification without the use of prosodic devices.
4. Progressive Hearing Loss: Worsening symptoms that significantly impact daily activities.

Types of Stapedectomy

1. Partial Stapedectomy:

• The surgeon removes only a portion of the stapes.
• The surgeon places a prosthesis to restore sound conduction.

2. Complete Stapedectomy:

• The entire stapes bone is removed and replaced.
• Chosen for severe cases of otosclerosis.

Procedure Steps

1. Preoperative Assessment:

• Audiometric tests to evaluate hearing loss severity.
• Imaging studies like CT scans to confirm otosclerosis.

2. Anesthesia:

• Local or general anesthesia is administered.

3. Surgical Procedure:

• The surgeon creates a tiny incision in the ear canal.
• The surgeon carefully removes the stapes bone.
• The surgeon implants a prosthesis (e.g., titanium or Teflon).

4. Postoperative Care:

• There’s a sterile in the ear that promotes healing (e.g.
• Patients are monitored for balance and hearing improvement.

Benefits of Stapedectomy

1. Improved Hearing: Significant restoration of sound clarity.
2. Reduced Reliance on Hearing Aids: Many patients no longer require devices.
3. Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved communication and social interactions.
4. Long-Term Solution: Durable results in most cases.

Cost Comparison in Different Countries

Best Hospitals in India for Stapedectomy

1. AIIMS, Delhi (a renowned institution for its excellent quality of ENT care and cost-effective treatment).
2. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. skillful ENT surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities.
3. Fortis Hospital, Delhi – Equipped with cutting-edge surgical technology.
4. BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi, Offers excellent postoperative care.

Risks and Complications

1. Temporary dizziness or vertigo.
2. Risk of infection or bleeding.
3. Rare chance of hearing loss due to nerve damage.
4. Tinnitus or ringing in the ears.

Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Usually 1–2 days.
• Hearing Improvement: Gradual over 4–6 weeks.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and water exposure to the ear.
• Follow-Up Appointments: To monitor prosthesis placement and hearing improvement.