Stapes surgery, also known as stapedectomy, 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.

The stapedectomy procedure involves removing the fixed stapes bone and replacing it with a prosthetic device to allow sound to be transmitted more effectively to the inner ear. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes between one and two hours to complete.

There are two main types of stapes surgery: total stapedectomy and partial stapedectomy. Total stapedectomy involves complete removal of the stapes bone, while partial stapedectomy involves removal of only a portion of the stapes bone. The choice of which type of surgery to perform depends on the extent and location of the otosclerosis and the preference of the surgeon.

Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a thorough hearing evaluation to determine the degree and type of hearing loss. The patient will also undergo a preoperative medical evaluation to ensure that they are healthy enough to undergo the procedure.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision behind the ear to access the middle ear. The fixed stapes bone is then removed, and a prosthetic device, typically made of plastic or metal, is inserted in its place. The prosthetic device is secured in place with a small wire and/or adhesive material.

After the surgery, the patient will typically spend a few hours in the recovery room before being discharged home. Most patients experience some discomfort and dizziness after the surgery, which typically resolves within a few days. The patient will also need to keep the ear dry and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks after the surgery to allow for proper healing.

The success rate of stapes surgery is generally high, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their hearing after the procedure. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with stapes surgery. These may include:

• Changes in taste or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Infection or bleeding
• Failure of the prosthetic device
• Hearing loss or worsening of preexisting hearing loss
• Facial nerve injury
  
  

Patients should discuss the risks and potential benefits of stapes surgery with their surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.

In some cases, stapes surgery may not be recommended or may not be effective in improving hearing loss. In these cases, other treatment options may be considered, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants. Hearing aids can amplify sound and improve hearing for patients with conductive or sensorineural hearing loss. Cochlear implants are electronic devices that are surgically implanted in the inner ear to provide a sense of sound for patients with severe or profound hearing loss.

In conclusion, stapes surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat hearing loss caused by otosclerosis. The procedure involves removing the fixed stapes bone and replacing it with a prosthetic device to allow sound to be transmitted more effectively to the inner ear. The success rate of stapes surgery is generally high, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their hearing after the procedure. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with stapes surgery, and patients should discuss the risks and potential benefits with their surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.