stapedotomi

Stapedotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat conductive hearing loss, which occurs when sound waves cannot travel properly through the middle ear. The procedure involves creating a small opening in the stapes, the smallest bone in the body, which is located in the middle ear. This opening allows sound waves to bypass the damaged stapes and reach the inner ear, thereby restoring hearing.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and can be done on an outpatient basis. It is a relatively simple and quick surgery, usually taking less than an hour to complete. The recovery period is also short, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

Stapedotomy is considered a safe and effective treatment option for conductive hearing loss. It has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their hearing. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to the surrounding structures.

The decision to undergo stapedotomy should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, who can assess the individual's hearing loss and determine if the procedure is appropriate. It is important to note that stapedotomy does not address sensorineural hearing loss, which occurs when the inner ear or the auditory nerve is damaged.

In summary, stapedotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat conductive hearing loss by creating an opening in the stapes to allow sound waves to bypass the damaged bone. It is a safe and effective treatment option with a high success rate, but it carries some risks and is not suitable for all types of hearing loss.