The human ear consists of three parts: the inner ear, middle ear, and outer ear.
As a result, the ossicles cannot transmit sound, causing hearing loss.
Otosclerosis more commonly affects both ears, but it can affect just one ear.
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This condition is treated withstapedectomy.
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What Is Stapedectomy Surgery?
A stapedectomy is performed to remove the diseased stapes and replace it with an artificial implant.
It is a scheduled outpatient elective surgery, meaning most people go home after having the surgery.
Contraindications
The surgeon will determine if someone is an appropriate candidate for surgery.
Hearing Aids for Otorosclerosis
Hearing aids are an alternative to stapedectomy.
Purpose of Stapedectomy Surgery
People diagnosed with otosclerosis that has caused hearing loss may qualify for stapedectomy.
Early symptoms of otosclerosis include difficulty hearing in conversations, while chewing, or in noisy environments.
How to Prepare
Before surgery, see to it any questions are answered by the surgeon.
You will need someone to drive you home on the day of the surgery.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the surgery.
Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided prior to surgery as they can interact with anesthesia medications.
This allows the surgeon to check your hearing at the end of the surgery.
Recovery
Your hearing may be better immediately after the surgery.
Packing is removed from the ear one to two weeks after the surgery.
It is important to not get water in the ear in the first few days following the surgery.
You will notice a sensitivity to noise as you recover, so noisy environments should be avoided.
Slowly increase walking as tolerated.
It is essential to attend all follow-up appointments with the surgeon following your stapedectomy.
During the procedure, a surgeon replaces your stapes with a prosthesis.
Hearing aids are an alternative treatment for people who don’t want to undergo surgery.
The risks and benefits of surgery should be discussed before proceeding with surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does stapedectomy improve hearing?
What helps with sleep after stapedectomy?
Rest whenever you feel tired and get plenty of sleep after surgery.
Is a stapedectomy prosthesis permanent?
Yes, a stapedectomy prosthesis is considered a permanent implant.
Rarely, some patients require revision surgery.
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.Stapedectomy.
Mount Sinai.Otosclerosis and stapedectomy.
In: StatPearls [Internet].
Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
My Health Alberta.Stapedectomy: What to expect at home.
