Small Fenestra Stapedotomy Research Articles

Analysis of the efficacy of fiber laser stapes fenestration in the treatment of 58 cases of otosclerosis and ossicular malformation

Objective: To explore the surgical efficacy of conductive deafness caused by otosclerosis and ossicular malformation with 980 nm fiber laser stapedial floor fenestration. Methods: Data of 58 patients (ears) who were diagnosed with conductive deafness caused by otosclerosis (49 ears) and ossicular malformation (9 ears) treated by 980 nm Diode laser small-fenestra stapedotomy were retrospectively analyzed. Air conduction (AC) thresholds, bone conduction (BC) thresholds, and air-bone gap (ABG) at 0.5, 1, 2, 4 kHz pure tone frequencies were compared before and 3 months after surgery, and the advantages and precautions of 980 nm fiber laser were summarized. Paired t-test (SPSS 26.0 software) was use to analyze the listening data. Results: Fiber optic laser stapes fenestration and artificial stapes implantation were successfully completed in all 57 cases (ears), the hearing of another one patient (ear) with floating malformation of detachment of stapedial floor was lower than that before surgery. Preoperative at 0.5, 1, 2, 4 kHz frequencies of AC thresholds, BC thresholds, and ABG were (65.4±9.7) dB, (27.2±8.9) dB, and (38.2±9.8) dB respectively. Postoperative 3 months at the same frequency of AC thresholds, BC thresholds, and ABG were (42.1±11.3) dB, (26.9±6.6) dB, and (15.2±9.1) dB. Preoperative and postoperative of AC threshold and ABG were statistically significant at 0.5, 1, 2, 4 kHz (t value was 13.270 and13.948, both P<0.01), and yet the BC threshold was not statistically significant before and after surgery at the same frequency (t=0.418, P>0.05). Conclusions: 980 nm fiber laser stapes floor fenestration is an effective treatment for conductive deafness caused by otosclerosis and ossicular malformation.

Small Fenestra Stapedotomy in Comparison to Large Fenestra Stapedectomy in Improving Hearing Loss Caused by Otosclerosis: A Retrospective Study

Background: A retrospective study done on all otosclerotic patients who underwent stapes surgery between January 2019 and June 2022 in the department of otorhinolaryngology in a tertiary care hospital in North India. Material and Methods: Fifty four patients were enrolled in the study. The inclusion criteria of the study included patients in the age group of 18–55 years with conductive hearing loss and an intact tympanic membrane and an air–bone gap (ABG) of more than 30 dB. Diagnosis of otosclerosis is based on clinical history of progressive hearing loss and audiometric evaluation. Pure Tone Average shows typical conductive hearing loss pattern. Aim and Objective: Preoperative and 6 months postoperative audiological evaluation was conducted to understand the difference in hearing. The same surgical technique was used in all the cases, except that the dimension of the foot plate removed was different. Results: The mean age of patients in years who underwent stapes surgery was 31.6 ± 6.4 years. Out of the 54 patients, 24 (44.44%) were male and 30 (55.56%) were female. The number of patients who underwent large fenestra stapedectomy was 30 (55.56%) and who underwent small fenestra stapedotomy was 24 (44.44%). There was a significant improvement in the hearing parameters (PTA and ABG) in both the groups after surgery, but there was no significant difference between the small fenestra and large fenestra groups in terms of improvement in PTA and ABG. Conclusion: In conclusion, both small fenestra stapedotomy and large fenestra stapedectomy are safe and effective procedures for improving conductive hearing loss in otosclerosis patients.

A retrospective study on the outcomes of stapedotomy with vein graft interposition and vein graft surround techniques.

This study evaluated audiological outcomes of stapedotomy using two different techniques, vein graft interposition and vein graft surround, for sealing the stapes fenestra. A retrospective study of 130 patients who underwent stapedotomy for otosclerosis was performed. A total of 84 patients underwent the vein graft surround procedure and 46 underwent the vein graft interposition procedure. Post-operative hearing outcome was compared between them. A total of 55 of 130 patients had a post-operative air-bone gap of less than 10 dB. A total of 57 patients had an air-bone gap within 20 dB. The average air-bone gap was 13.16 dB at 3 months with a mean improvement of 22.06 dB (11.98 dB for vein graft interposition and 13.80 dB for vein graft surround; p = 0.79). There was no significant difference in hearing outcome between the two techniques. The vein graft interposition technique is preferred for large fenestra or stapedectomy cases and in cerebrospinal fluid gusher cases. The vein graft surround technique is easier to perform and preferred in small fenestra stapedotomy.

Predictive Effect of Bone Conduction Pattern on Hearing Outcomes of Stapes Surgery.

Examine the effect of preoperative bone conduction pattern on outcomes of stapedotomy/stapedectomy. Retrospective case series. Tertiary-care academic medical center. Patients who underwent stapedotomy or stapedectomy from 2013 to 2019. Primary small-fenestra stapedotomy or partial stapedectomy. Association between preoperative bone conduction patterns and hearing after stapes surgery. Complete audiometric data were available for 137 patients who had surgery. The mean preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) was 26.8 dBHL. The ABG was closed to less than 20 and 10 dBHL in 88.7 and 65.2% of patients, respectively. A notch at 2000 Hz was present in 32.1% of operated ears and was rarely found at other frequencies. There was no statistically significant association between the presence of a notch and hearing outcomes. The slope of the bone conduction line had no association with hearing outcomes, though an increased bone conduction PTA compared with the contralateral ear was associated with ABG closure less than 10 dBHL and overclosure (odds ratio: 2.14, p = 0.027 and odds ratio: 2.20, p = 0.04). In properly selected otosclerosis patients, depressions in bone conduction other than near 2000 Hz are rare and hearing outcomes are generally favorable regardless of the preoperative bone conduction pattern. Despite the association with otosclerosis, the presence of a notch at 2000 Hz is not associated with better hearing outcomes with surgery.

Primary stapedotomy: Influence of prosthesis diameter on hearing outcome

ObjectivesTo evaluate the success rate of primary stapedotomy and to investigate the influence of prosthesis diameter on hearing outcome. Material and methodsRetrospective medical chart review of 125 cases who underwent primary small fenestra stapedotomy, from January 2001 to December 2018. The study population was divided in two groups based on Teflon prosthesis diameter – .6mm (60%, N=75) and .4mm (40%, N=50). Pre- and postoperative (≥12 months) air-conduction (AC), bone conduction (BC) and air-bone gap (ABG) thresholds were compared. ResultsPostoperative ABG≤10dB and ≤20dB was achieved by 65.7% and 90% of the patients. A functional hearing (PTA-AC≤30dB) was achieved by 59.2% of patients. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL, worsening in BC-PTA>10dB) was identified in 7.2% of patients. Comparison of the .6mm- and .4mm-groups, revealed no differences regarding improvements in AC-PTA (22.4 vs. 20.7dB, p=.56), BC-PTA (3.4 vs. 2.3dB, p=.54) and ABG-PTA (19.1 vs. 18.4dB, p=.77). Hearing outcome evaluation identified similar postoperative success rate (.6mm, 79.7% vs. .4mm, 62%, p=.336) and comparable functional hearing (.6mm, 64% vs. .4mm, 52%; p=.197). The incidence of postoperative SNHL was similar between the two pistons (.6m, 5.3% vs. .4mm, 10%, p=.481). ConclusionPrimary small fenestra stapedotomy is an effective and safe procedure. A postoperative ABG within 10dB was achieved in 67.2% of patients and there was a reduced incidence of sensorineural hearing loss. Hearing outcome was not influenced by diameter of the selected prosthesis. Postoperative bone conduction hearing thresholds did not differ between the groups, which revealed no significant inner ear trauma caused by the larger piston. Although we did not find evidence to suggest one piston over the other, our results showed a trend toward better results with the larger prosthesis.

Fifteen-Year Follow-Up of Stapedotomy Patients: Audiological Outcomes and Associated Factors in a Middle Income Country

Objective: To evaluate the short-term (postoperative), medium-term (5 years), and long-term (10 and 15 years) audiometric results of patients who underwent stapedotomy and to determine specific factors associated with better postoperative outcomes. Methods: This study is a retrospective case review of 486 ears with surgically confirmed stapes fixation who underwent microscopic small fenestra stapedotomy. Preoperative, postoperative, and medium- and long-term air conduction (AC), bone conduction (BC), and air-bone gap (ABG) were assessed. Postoperative factors associated with better postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Results: At 10- and 15-year follow-ups, ABG, AC, and BC were significantly deteriorated but clinically preserved in comparison with postoperative results. According to a multiple quantile regression, younger age was associated with better postoperative results at 0.25 kHz (p = 0.003) and 4 kHz (p = 0.028) and a smaller preoperative ABG was associated with better audiometric results at 0.25 kHz (p = 0.048), 0.5 kHz (p = 0.001), and 4 kHz (p = 0.001). In addition, younger age (p = 0.001 for AC and p < 0.001 for BC) and preoperative AC PTA (p < 0.001 for AC) were significantly associated with better postoperative AC and BC PTA. Conclusions: Stapedotomy surgery provides short-, medium-, and long-term hearing benefits in our studied cohort. ABG, AC, and BC thresholds obtained after the surgery are clinically preserved in 5-, 10-, and 15-year follow-ups, with an age-expected BC deterioration. Smaller preoperative ABG and younger age were positive predictors for better postoperative ABG. Future research should address long-term subjective and quality of life outcomes.

Primary stapedotomy: Influence of prosthesis diameter on hearing outcome

ObjectivesTo evaluate the success rate of primary stapedotomy and to investigate the influence of prosthesis diameter on hearing outcome. Material and methodsRetrospective medical chart review of 125 cases who underwent primary small fenestra stapedotomy, from January 2001 to December 2018. The study population was divided in two groups based on Teflon prosthesis diameter – .6mm (60%, N=75) and .4mm (40%, N=50). Pre- and postoperative (≥12 months) air-conduction (AC), bone conduction (BC) and air-bone gap (ABG) thresholds were compared. ResultsPostoperative ABG≤10dB and ≤20dB was achieved by 65.7% and 90% of the patients. A functional hearing (PTA-AC≤30dB) was achieved by 59.2% of patients. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL, worsening in BC-PTA>10dB) was identified in 7.2% of patients. Comparison of the .6mm- and .4mm-groups, revealed no differences regarding improvements in AC-PTA (22.4 vs. 20.7dB, p=.56), BC-PTA (3.4 vs. 2.3dB, p=.54) and ABG-PTA (19.1 vs. 18.4dB, p=.77). Hearing outcome evaluation identified similar postoperative success rate (.6mm, 79.7% vs. .4mm, 62%, p=.336) and comparable functional hearing (.6mm, 64% vs. .4mm, 52%; p=.197). The incidence of postoperative SNHL was similar between the two pistons (.6m, 5.3% vs. .4mm, 10%, p=.481). ConclusionPrimary small fenestra stapedotomy is an effective and safe procedure. A postoperative ABG within 10dB was achieved in 67.2% of patients and there was a reduced incidence of sensorineural hearing loss. Hearing outcome was not influenced by diameter of the selected prosthesis. Postoperative bone conduction hearing thresholds did not differ between the groups, which revealed no significant inner ear trauma caused by the larger piston. Although we did not find evidence to suggest one piston over the other, our results showed a trend toward better results with the larger prosthesis.

Stapedotomy post-operative results and complications

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Otosclerosis is a hereditary localized disease of the bone derived from the otic capsule. It is characterized by alternating phases of bone formation and resorption and patient presents with conductive hearing loss. Treatment of otosclerosis can be of two kinds: hearing aids and surgery. Stapedectomy and stapedotomy are the two surgical procedures done for treatment of otosclerosis. Present study was conducted on 30 patients with otosclerosis who underwent stapedotomy to assess the hearing results post-surgery by serial Audiometric studies and to study the complications of stapedotomy surgery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This prospective observational study conducted on 30 patients of otosclerosis who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; In this study of thirty cases of otosclerosis which were operated for small fenestra stapedotomy, we conclude that Hearing gain post-surgery was remarkable especially for patients with a pure conductive hearing loss. There was no deterioration in hearing after two years of follow-up. In our study on 30 patients we encountered minor complication in 4 patients (13.33%) and 1 major complication of profound sensorineural hearing loss 3.33%.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; We conclude that stapedotomy is a relatively safe procedure with significant post-surgery hearing benefit.&lt;/p&gt;

Comparative study showing relevance of prosthesis diameter and hearing outcome in stapes surgery

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Otosclerosis presents as conductive hearing loss, stapedotomy is the treatment for otosclerosis, and different sizes of piston diameter are available for the procedure. Aims and objectives were to study and compare hearing improvement between the 0.4 and 0.6 mm sizes of teflon piston in stapedotomy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; It was a prospective randomized controlled trial. Patients fulfilling inclusion criteria were subjected for small fenestra stapedotomy. Patients were divided into two groups after randomization into group A (with 0.4 mm piston diameter) and group B (with 0.6 mm piston diameter). The hearing outcome with standard audiological assessment was performed at one month and six months postoperatively. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; Comparison of 1 month AB gap among the patients with 0.4 mm piston and 0.6 mm piston showed that there was no statistically significant difference among both the groups of patients (independent t test p value=0.699). Comparison of 6 month AB gap among the patients with 0.4 mm piston and 0.6 mm piston showed that there was no statistically significant difference among both the groups of patients (independent t test p value=0.54).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; There was no significant difference in hearing improvement among the individual methods (piston size 0.4 and 0.6) with each other both in 1 month post-operative and 6 month post-operative follow up. Hence, we conclude that there is no relevance of different diameter of teflon piston prosthesis (0.4 mm versus 0.6 mm) as far as hearing outcome is concerned.&lt;/p&gt;

Small Fenestra Stapedotomy Versus Large Fenestra Stapedectomy in Improving Hearing Ability in Patients with Otosclerosis: Our 10Years Experience.

The aim of this study was to review the experience with surgical treatment of otosclerosis over the last 10years at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre and to compare it with reported outcomes. A total of 125 patients who had reported between January 2008 and June 2018 were selected for the study. The inclusion criteria for the study included the age group 15-60years, conductive hearing loss with intact tympanic membrane and an air-bone-gap (ABG) of more than 30dB. The exclusion criteria included patients below 15years of age and above 60years of age, patients with chronic otitis media and the cases of revision stapes surgery. Audiological evaluation was conducted prior to the surgery and post operative audiological evaluation was also performed after 1month to understand the difference in hearing. In all cases the same surgical technique was used, only the dimension of the foot plate removed varied. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) (version windows base system, SPSS Inc. Chicago IL USA) software. Mean age in years who underwent surgery is 37.8 ± 11.4 and duration of disease in months median 36months (range 1-120months). Of the 125 patients (42% males and 58% females), 73 patients underwent large fenestra stapedotomy, and 52 patients underwent small fenestra stapedotomy. There was significant improvement in the following hearing parameters studied (puretone average of air conduction thresholds-PTA, ABG) in both the groups after surgery. There was no significant difference between the small fenestra and large fenestra groups with respect to improvement in PTA and ABG. On comparison of SDS (pre and post surgery) statistically significant difference was noted only in small fenestra group. However, this difference of SDS was not significant in between group comparison (stapedotomy versus stapedectomy). In summary both techniques are safe and effective treatment for conductive hearing loss in otosclerosis patients. There appears to be no deleterious effects of either procedures on hearing function. Similar results can be obtained in experienced hands using either technique. The absence of serious complications makes it reasonable to perform stapes surgery in both ears in patients with bilateral otosclerosis with conductive hearing loss.

Otosclerosis Revisited

Introduction: Otosclerosis usually manifests as a progressive conductive or mixed hearing loss occurring clinically to varying degrees in 0.5% - 1% of the general population. Stapedectomy /stapedotomy is the current treatment of choice for conductive component of Otosclerosis.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Sixty patients attending the department of ENT of a Medical College Hospital in Bangalore between October 2012 and October 2017 were included in the study.&#x0D; Results: The incidence of otosclerosis is highest in the 3rd and 4th decade. Bilateral symptoms were present in 25% and 75% had unilateral symptoms, right side being more common in our study. Tinnitus and vertigo with deafness are seen in 60% and 25 % of the patients respectively.&#x0D; Ninety percent of the patients presented with moderate to moderately severe hearing loss. Twenty four (40%) out of 60 audiograms studied showed Carhart's notch. Postoperativeclosure of a-b gap to within 10dB could be achieved in 65% cases. The p value calculated comparing pre and post op results is &lt;0.0001 and significant.&#x0D; Vertigo was found to be most common post-operative complication (35%) followed by sensorineural hearing loss (6.6%). Other complications observed during the study include - tympanic membrane tears, foot plate extrusion, lax long process of incus, perilymph leak.&#x0D; Conclusion: From the assessment of the postoperative hearing gain and postoperative complications, it can be concluded that small fenestra stapedotomy gives satisfactory post-operative outcome and may be appropriatein the Indian scenario.

Post Stapedotomy Vestibular Deficit: Is CO2 Laser Better than Conventional Technique? A Non-randomized Controlled Trial.

The current standard of care for surgical management of Otosclerosis is small fenestra stapedotomy, which can be done by CO2 Laser assisted as well as conventional techniques. Vertigo is the commonest complication after stapes surgery. The use of CO2 Laser has been rising recently owing to its no touch principle, high precision and possibly lower risk of vertigo post operatively. To compare the post-operative vestibular deficit in patients of Otosclerosis having undergone small fenestra stapedotomy by conventional versus CO2 Laser assisted technique. 80 clinically diagnosed Otosclerosis patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled. They underwent small fenestra stapedotomy by either conventional or CO2 Laser assisted technique. Vestibular function was assessed objectively by measuring sway velocity using modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance by static posturography. Subjective measurement of balance was done using Vestibular balance subscore of Vertigo Symptom Score (VSS-sf-V). The outcome measures were compared pre-operatively and at first and fourth week post-operatively. All patients had vestibular deficit 1week post-operatively in the form of increased sway velocity and symptom scores, which reduced by 4weeks after Stapedotomy. The vestibular deficit in the two groups was similar at 1week after surgery. 4weeks after surgery, the sway velocity in conventional group was significantly greater than Laser group though there was no significant difference in the symptom scores. The use of CO2 Laser for Stapedotomy results in lesser post-operative vestibular deficit as compared to conventional method.

A Prospective Study of Efficacy of Small Fenestra Stapedotomy at a South Asian Center

Abstract Introduction The best surgical treatment for otosclerosis is stapedotomy. Various methods are used for creating fenestra, including manual pick, laser, and Skeeter drill. In India, despite several studies on the hearing outcomes of otosclerosis surgery, there exist few studies on small fenestra stapedotomy performed using a microdrill. Hence, we designed this study with the objectives of examining the demographic profile, hearing improvement after surgery, anatomical variations encountered at surgery, effect of microdrill use on bone conduction (BC), and postoperative complications of small fenestra stapedotomy. Methods A prospective study was conducted for 63 patients of otosclerosis. Stapedotomy was performed by the same surgeon on all patients by a transcanal approach under local anesthesia. Small fenestra stapedotomy was performed using Skeeter microdrill. The study proforma included sociodemographic profile, clinical history, examination, audiometry, surgical details, and postoperative findings. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Results Our study demonstrated a male preponderance (58.7%) over females (41.3%). Of the study population, 31.7% reported a family history of otosclerosis, whereas nine (14.28%) individuals had a history of measles. All four different types of footplates were identified. Most of them were either type 1 (52.4%) or 2 (34.9%). In most cases, the diameter was 0.4 mm (96.8%), a majority of the cases having either 4.25 (22.2%) or 4.5 mm (63.5%) long piston. After stapes surgery, the mean ABG reduced from 39.48 (±9.17) to 13.89 (±7.99) dB. The mean worsening in postoperative BC was only 3.035 dB. Use of microdrill caused only a slight and statistically insignificant decline in BC. Anatomical variation of a narrow oval window niche may require drilling of the bone. In practice, this drilling does not adversely affect the BC of the patient. Some facial nerve variation (partially overhanging facial nerve and exposed facial nerve) may be encountered, but it does not affect the facial nerve function or hearing improvement. On rare occasions, facial paresis may occur on the fifth to sixth postoperative day, even without facial nerve handling. This can be managed conservatively with oral steroids with favorable results. Taste alterations are seen even when the chorda handling is minimal. Complaints are most common in the first few weeks after surgery. Over a 6-month period, only 5% of the patients who underwent surgery were found to have altered taste sensation. Conclusion Microdrill-assisted small fenestra stapedotomy, performed under local anesthesia, with placement of a 0.4-mm Teflon piston for patients with otosclerosis produces excellent results. The complication rates are low, and the surgery has a positive impact on the patient's hearing.

Hearing Outcome With the Use of Glass Ionomer Cement as an Alternative to Crimping in Stapedotomy.

To evaluate early hearing outcomes using glass ionomer cement to fix the Teflon piston prosthesis onto the long process of incus to minimize residual conductive hearing loss after stapedotomy. Original report of prospective randomized control study. Tertiary referral center. A total of 80 consecutive patients with otosclerosis were randomized into two groups. Group A is a control group in which 40 patients underwent small fenestra stapedotomy using the classic technique. Group B included 40 patients who were subjected to small fenestra stapedotomy with fixation of the incus-prosthesis junction with glass ionomer bone cement. Stapedotomy with the classical technique in group A and the alternative technique in group B. The audiometric results before and after surgery. Analysis of the results was performed using the paired t test to compare between pre and postoperative results. χ test was used to compare the results of the two groups. A p value less than 0.05 was considered significant from the statistical standpoint. Significant postoperative improvement of both pure-tone air conduction thresholds and air-bone gaps were reported in the two studied groups. The postoperative average residual air-bone gap and hearing gain were statistically significant in group B (p < 0.05) compared with group A. The use of glass ionomer bone cement in primary otosclerosis surgery using the aforementioned prosthesis and the surgical technique is of significant value in producing maximal closure of the air-bone gap and better audiological outcomes.

Endoscopic exploratory tympanotomy findings in conductive hearing loss: a surgical review

Background: Conductive hearing loss continue to remain undiagnosed in a large number of patients with intact membrane. Endoscope assisted tympanotomy provides an alternative technique for diagnosis and also facilitates treatment. Methods: A prospective analysis over a 5 year period of 72 exploratory tympanotomies for conductive hearing loss was performed in patients with intact tympanic membrane. Per operative findings were treated in the same sitting. Post-operative follow up of the patient was done up to 6 months. Results: The most common operative diagnosis was found to be otosclerosis (66%), followed by traumatic ossicular dislocation, tympanosclerotic patch, middle ear adhesions, foreign bodies etc. Small fenestra Stapedotomy with prosthesis insertion was the preferred surgical procedure performed in this study, resulting in perceptible hearing improvement post operatively. Conclusion: Endoscope assisted tympanotomy and associated middle ear surgeries serves as an effective diagnostic and therapeutic option. This study is of value in assessing the surgical challenges in diagnosis and definitive treatment for conductive hearing loss with an intact tympanic membrane.

Pre and Post-Operative Evaluation of Small Fenestra Stapedotomy in StapedialOtosclerosis

Pre and Post-Operative Evaluation of Small Fenestra Stapedotomy in StapedialOtosclerosis

Long-term follow-up after "one-shot" CO2 laser stapedotomy: is the functional outcome stable during the years?

The use of "one-shot" CO2 laser technique for a primary small-fenestra stapedotomy is well established, but few papers report the long-term functional results. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 198 patients, treated for otosclerosis from January 2008 to December 2011, at the Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Catholic University of Rome. Statistical comparison between audiological thresholds obtained 24h preoperatively, at early (4weeks) and late postoperative examinations (mean time 45months), was performed. Comparison of preoperative vs both early and late postoperative ACPTA showed a statistically significant difference (respectively 55 vs 33 and 31dB; p<0.001). No statistical difference was observed between preoperative, early and late postoperative BCPTA (respectively 23 vs 23 and 22dB; p>0.05). Both early and late postoperative ABG improved significantly compared to the preoperative one (respectively 10 and 9 vs 32dB; p<0.001). No statistical difference was found in comparison of early vs late postoperative ACPTA (respectively 33 vs 31dB; p>0.05), early vs late postoperative ABG (respectively 10 vs 9dB; p>0.05) and early vs late ABG gain (respectively 22 vs 23dB; p>0.05). No subjects developed postoperative complications requiring revision surgery or late deterioration of hearing threshold. The analysis of our data suggests that "one-shot" CO2 laser stapedotomy is an effective and safe procedure: it allows a rapid stapedotomy without damages for the inner ear and optimal functional results that remain stable during the years.

Comparison of Stapedotomy Minus Prosthesis, Circumferential Stapes Mobilization, and Small Fenestra Stapedotomy for Stapes Fixation

To compare the outcomes of 3 surgical techniques for primary stapes fixation: stapedotomy minus prosthesis (STAMP), circumferential stapes mobilization (CSM), and small fenestra stapedotomy (SFS). Retrospective review of 277 primary cases operated for stapes fixation from 1997 to 2007. Tertiary academic center. Consecutive adult and pediatric cases operated for conductive hearing loss because of stapes fixation. STAMP was performed for otosclerosis limited to the anterior footplate, CSM was conducted for congenital stapes fixation, SFS was performed for more extensive otosclerosis or anatomic contraindications to STAMP/CSM. Pure-tone audiometry was performed preoperatively and postoperatively (3-6 wk) and the most recent long-term results (≥ 12 mo). Ninety-nine ears in 90 patients had audiologic follow-up data over 12 months. Sixty-seven ears (68%) underwent SFS, 16 (16%) STAMP, and 16 (16%) CSM. There was significant improvement in average air conduction (AC) thresholds and air-bone gap (ABG) for all techniques. Mean ABG for SFS closed from 29 to 7.1 dB (SD, 6.0), for STAMP from 29 to 3.8 dB (SD, 5.8 dB), and for CSM from 34 to 20 dB (SD, 8.2 dB). AC results were better in the STAMP than in the SFS group, especially in high frequencies. Bone conduction improvements were seen in all groups, highest in STAMP (4.3 dB) and CSM (3.8 dB) groups, but the differences between groups were not statistically significant. Satisfactory hearing results were achieved with all the techniques, and STAMP showed better hearing outcomes, especially in high frequencies. CSM is a good option for children and patients in whom it is desirable to avoid a footplate fenestration or prosthesis. CSM and STAMP had significantly higher rates of revision for refixation than SFS.

Piston diameter in stapes surgery. Does it have a bearing?

Aims and Objectives: This prospective randomized controlled trial was done to study the effect of piston diameter on hearing outcomes after stapedotomy. Materials and Methods: All the patients diagnosed to have otosclerosis were included in the study. A total of 52 patients were studied ranging in age from 18 to 50 years. The subjects were randomized into two groups, that is, 0.4 mm piston (group A) and 0.6 mm piston (group B). The subjects were taken up for small fenestra stapedotomy using either a 0.4 or 0.6 mm piston. The main outcome measures were hearing improvement, air-bone gap closure, and overclosure of air-bone gap. Results: There was no statistical difference in hearing improvement in two different piston diameters, 0.4 and 0.6 mm at speech frequencies. In group A, the air-bone gap improvement in the third follow-up was not significant ( P > 0.05), whereas group B showed a statistically significant improvement ( P = 0.003). The mean overclosure of air-bone gap was better in patients with 0.4 mm piston at speech frequencies and also at 250 Hz. Significantly, overclosure of air-bone gap at higher frequencies (4 and 8 KHz) was seen only with a smaller sized piston. (0.4 mm). Discussion: We analyzed the effect of piston diameter on the hearing results after small fenestra stapedotomy by using similar surgical procedure and similar prosthesis in all patients. Conclusion: There is evidence to suggest that 0.4 mm piston may be better suited for providing optimum hearing results.

The clinical experience of laser assisted small fenestra stapedotomy

The clinical experience of laser assisted small fenestra stapedotomy