Stapes surgery, also known as stapedectomy, is a procedure used to treat conductive hearing loss caused by otosclerosis, a condition where abnormal bone growth affects the stapes bone in the middle ear. The stapes, one of the three tiny bones in the middle ear, plays a crucial role in conducting sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. In otosclerosis, the stapes becomes immobilized, preventing sound vibrations from passing effectively into the cochlea, leading to hearing loss. During stapes surgery the fixed stapes bone is replaced with a prosthesis made of a biocompatible material, such as titanium or plastic, which restores the movement of sound vibrations to the inner ear. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 60 to 90 minutes. It’s highly effective in restoring hearing for most patients, with a success rate of over 90%.
After surgery, patients usually experience a significant improvement in hearing, although it may take several weeks for the full benefit to be realized. Stapes surgery is often performed in a single ear, but in cases where both ears are affected, the procedure can be repeated in the other ear. While the surgery has a high success rate, there are potential risks, such as hearing deterioration, dizziness, and damage to the inner ear. However, these complications are rare. Postoperative care includes follow-up visits with the surgeon to monitor healing and ensure that the prosthesis is functioning correctly. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, although they are advised to avoid strenuous activity and water exposure to the ear during the initial healing period. Stapes surgery has proven to be a life-changing procedure for many individuals with otosclerosis, restoring hearing and improving their quality of life.
