stapedektómia

Stapedektómia is a surgical procedure performed to restore hearing in individuals with otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, specifically affecting the stapes, one of the small bones responsible for transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear. This abnormal growth can fix the stapes in place, preventing it from vibrating and thus hindering the passage of sound.

The primary goal of stapedektómia is to remove the immobilized stapes and replace it with a prosthesis. The surgeon typically makes an incision in the ear canal to access the eardrum and middle ear. Once the stapes is identified, it is carefully removed, often leaving a small portion of its base attached. A tiny prosthesis, usually made of Teflon or wire, is then positioned to connect the remaining part of the stapes or the incus (another middle ear bone) to the oval window, the opening that leads to the inner ear. This prosthesis effectively bypasses the fixed stapes, allowing sound vibrations to be transmitted once again.

The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. Recovery time varies, but most patients experience significant hearing improvement within weeks. Potential risks include infection, dizziness, and incomplete hearing restoration, though these are generally uncommon. Stapedektómia is a well-established and effective treatment for certain types of hearing loss caused by otosclerosis.