Stapedectomy

What is Stapedectomy? Its Relationship with Otosclerosis Disease

Stapedectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat some ear diseases that cause hearing loss. This procedure involves removing the “stapes” bone, one of the three small bones that transmit sound in the inner ear, and replacing it with a prosthetic piece. Stapedectomy is usually used to treat otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a condition in which sound transmission is impaired due to abnormal growth and hardening of the bones in the ear. This disease usually prevents the stapes bone from moving, making it difficult for sound to be transmitted to the inner ear. Stapedectomy surgery aims to treat hearing loss by removing this obstacle. During the surgery, the stapes bone is removed and a prosthesis is placed in its place that improves hearing. In this way, sound waves are transmitted to the inner ear normally and the patient’s hearing is improved.

What Does Stapedectomy Mean?

Stapedectomy is the process of removing the stapes bone (anvil bone) in the ear and replacing it with a prosthesis. This procedure is especially performed in cases such as otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a disease that prevents the movement of the small bones in the ear, especially the stapes bone, and this condition leads to hearing loss. Stapedectomy aims to restore hearing by eliminating this movement restriction. The surgery is performed with microsurgical techniques and requires a very delicate intervention. After the stapedectomy procedure, patients usually experience a significant improvement in their hearing, but this improvement may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the success of the surgery.

What is Otosclerosis and Why Does It Occur?

Otosclerosis is a disease that prevents the stapes bone, one of the three small bones in the ear, from moving properly. This disease begins with abnormal growth of the bone tissue around the stapes bone. This growth prevents the bone from vibrating as it normally does, which makes it difficult for sound to be transmitted to the inner ear. As a result, the person experiences hearing loss. Although the exact cause of otosclerosis is not known, genetic factors play an important role. People with a family history of otosclerosis are more likely to develop this disease. It is also thought that hormones, and especially hormonal changes such as pregnancy, can cause otosclerosis. Otosclerosis usually occurs in the middle ear and is a progressive disease, and hearing loss can get worse if left untreated.

Why is Stapedectomy Surgery Necessary?

Stapedectomy is especially necessary to treat hearing loss caused by otosclerosis. Since otosclerosis prevents the movement of the stapes bone, sound waves coming to the ear cannot be transmitted sufficiently in the inner ear. In this case, the patient hears sounds weakly or not at all. Stapedectomy surgery eliminates this obstacle and allows the sound to reach the inner ear. The surgery is a delicate surgery performed without damaging the eardrum or disrupting the ear structure. During the procedure, the damaged stapes bone is removed and a prosthesis is placed in its place. This prosthesis helps correct hearing loss. Stapedectomy is generally a very successful treatment method and the majority of patients experience significant hearing improvement after the surgery. However, the results may vary for each patient and it is important to make a detailed assessment according to the patient’s condition before surgery.

How is Stapedectomy Surgery Performed? What are the Stages?

Stapedectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat hearing loss, usually caused by diseases such as otosclerosis. The surgery involves removing the stapes (anvil) bone in the ear that blocks sound transmission and replacing it with a prosthesis. Stapedectomy is a delicate procedure that is usually performed under a microscope and consists of three main stages.

The first stage begins with the patient being put to sleep. This procedure is usually performed with local or general anesthesia. Under local anesthesia, the patient can remain awake but not feel pain. However, general anesthesia may be preferred for some patients. Next, the surgeon makes a small incision in the ear canal. This incision is kept small enough to access the stapes bone, so that there is no visible scar on the outside. After the incision, the surgeon carefully removes the stapes bone and replaces it with a specially prepared prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to ensure that sound is transmitted properly to the inner ear. Once the prosthesis is in place, the surgeon places small stitches to close the wound and cleans the ear canal. After the surgery is complete, the patient can usually be discharged the same day, but the recovery process can take several days.

What is Stapedectomy Surgery Like?

Stapedectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat diseases such as otosclerosis, which cause hearing loss. The surgery involves removing the stapes bone, one of the three bones in the inner ear that transmit sound, and replacing it with a prosthesis that will improve hearing. This procedure is usually performed very delicately using a microscope, because the structures in the ear are extremely small and delicate. Stapedectomy surgery aims to restore hearing by removing the stapes bone, which blocks sound transmission, and replacing it with a prosthesis. The procedure usually begins with a small incision and the stapes bone is reached through an entrance made through the nose, mouth or ear canal. The prosthesis treats hearing loss by transmitting sound vibrations from the ear back to the inner ear.

What are the Techniques and Surgical Instruments Used During Surgery?

During stapedectomy surgery, certain techniques and surgical instruments are used so that the surgeon can work with precision and attention. The procedure is usually performed under a microscope, which allows the surgeon to examine very small structures in detail and perform delicate interventions. Surgical instruments include microsurgical needles, microsurgical scissors, and small tweezers. These instruments are used to remove small structures such as the stapes bone and to insert a prosthesis. Endoscopic cameras can also be used, allowing the surgeon to better view the structures in the inner ear. Before the prosthesis is placed, the surgeon makes a small incision in the eardrum and provides access to the stapes bone. During stapedectomy, the stapes bone is carefully removed and replaced with a prosthesis, usually made of biocompatible materials such as titanium or plastic. This prosthesis allows sound waves to be transmitted properly to the inner ear. These interventions, which are performed carefully during surgery, aim to correct hearing loss.

How Long Does Stapedectomy Surgery Take?

Stapedectomy surgery usually takes between 1-2 hours. The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the surgeon’s experience, the techniques used, and the patient’s ear structure. While the procedure may take less time for some patients, it may take a little longer for more complicated cases. During the surgery, a careful and delicate approach is required to avoid damaging the ear structure. The recovery process for patients after the procedure takes several days, and patients need to be careful during this process. Some patients can be discharged within a few hours immediately after the surgery, but the recovery process continues for several days. In addition, the success of the surgery depends on the surgeon’s skills and the patient’s recovery capacity.

Who Needs Stapedectomy Surgery?

Stapedectomy surgery is especially necessary for people who have hearing loss due to otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a disease that prevents the movement of the stapes bone, one of the three small bones in the inner ear. This condition causes hearing loss by making it difficult for sound to be transmitted in the ear. Stapedectomy is a surgery performed to solve this problem. People who need stapedectomy surgery are usually patients who have hearing loss, especially those whose stapes bone does not function properly due to otosclerosis. These patients see a doctor with complaints such as a significant decrease in their hearing, ringing in the ears, or the inability to transmit sounds clearly. Such patients can see a big difference in their daily lives with the hearing improvement they will get from surgery. However, this surgery is usually not only for the treatment of otosclerosis, but sometimes for other causes of hearing loss.

In Which Cases Is Otosclerosis Surgery Recommended?

Otosclerosis surgery is recommended if the patient’s hearing loss is progressing and their quality of life is seriously affected. Otosclerosis is usually a slowly developing disease, and hearing loss increases over time. If the patient has a severe impairment in the transmission of sounds to the ear and other treatment methods (such as hearing aids) do not provide sufficient results, surgical intervention may be recommended. Otosclerosis surgery is especially suitable for patients with moderate hearing loss. However, if the hearing loss is severe and has damaged the sensory cells in the inner ear, surgical intervention may be of limited benefit. Surgery is usually performed when hearing loss is significant, affects quality of life, and hearing aids are not sufficient. This surgical procedure aims to improve hearing by removing the stapes bone in the ear and replacing it with a prosthesis.

Is There Age or Any Other Criteria for Surgery?

Although the age limit for stapedectomy is not definite, the most suitable age range for surgery is generally between 18 and 50. In this age range, the recovery process of patients can be faster and hearing loss can be treated more successfully with surgical intervention. However, stapedectomy for the treatment of otosclerosis can be applied to individuals of all ages, as this disease can develop at any age. In addition to age, the general health status of patients is also an important criterion. Surgery can provide better results in healthy individuals. In addition, it is important to evaluate the stage of the patient’s hearing loss and how advanced the otosclerosis is before surgery. Tests and examinations to be performed before surgery will help determine whether the patient is suitable for surgery.

What Tests Should Be Performed Before Stapedectomy Surgery?

Before stapedectomy surgery, the patient’s general health status should be evaluated. First, if otosclerosis is suspected as the cause of hearing loss, the patient’s ear examination and hearing tests are performed. Audiometry is used to measure the degree of hearing loss and this test plays an important role in evaluating the necessity of surgery. In addition, tests such as audiometry and tympanometry can be performed on the patient’s ear structure. These tests determine how the eardrum and structures in the middle ear work. Factors such as the patient’s vascular health and sensitivity to anesthesia should also be considered. Blood tests can also be performed to evaluate the patient’s general health status. Suitability for anesthesia applications should be checked. Finally, if the patient has any ear infections or surgical interventions in the past, these conditions should also be evaluated. These tests are important for the surgery to be performed safely and for successful results to be obtained.

What Should Patients Pay Attention to Before Surgery?

There are a few important points that patients should pay attention to before stapedectomy surgery. First, smoking should be avoided before surgery because smoking can negatively affect the healing process and increase the risk of infection. In addition, patients should inform their doctors about the medications they regularly use. If you are taking blood thinners (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) before surgery, you may need to temporarily stop these medications with the advice of your doctor. Before surgery, it should be ensured that there is no infection in the ear canal. If there is an infection, surgery may be postponed. Patients should fast on the day of surgery and make preparations as recommended by their doctors. It is also important to talk to the doctor about any risks related to anesthesia. It contributes to the healing process if patients are in a relaxing environment and keep their stress levels low before surgery.

What Should Be Considered When Choosing a Surgeon and Hospital?

Stapedectomy surgery is a delicate surgical procedure, so the surgeon’s experience and the factors to be considered when choosing a hospital are very important. First of all, the surgeon must be an expert in otorhinolaryngology and especially experienced in stapedectomy. An experienced surgeon can better manage complications, increase the success of the surgery and guide the healing process in a healthier way. The number of stapedectomies the surgeon has performed before and the success rate achieved in these operations can be an important reference for patients.

Choosing a hospital is as important as choosing a surgeon. Factors such as hospital infrastructure, up-to-date surgical equipment, compliance with sterilization rules and infection control should be considered. In addition, the hospital’s anesthesiologists and rehabilitation support services also play a major role. The experience of the anesthesiologist is critical to ensuring a successful surgical process, especially if local anesthesia is to be used. When choosing a surgeon and hospital, patients should definitely pay attention to their expertise, experience and hospital conditions.

What are the risks of stapedectomy surgery?

Stapedectomy, like any surgical procedure, carries some risks. The main risks of this surgery include hearing loss and facial paralysis. Hearing loss can occur especially after the prosthesis is placed, if the desired result is not achieved. Facial paralysis can occur as a result of damage to the nerves in the ear area during surgery, but this is quite rare. In addition, complications such as bleeding, infection or more ear congestion can also occur during stapedectomy surgery. An incorrect procedure during prosthesis placement can cause the prosthesis not to be placed correctly. In addition, dizziness and balance problems can be seen in some patients in the postoperative period. However, the risks of these surgeries performed by experienced surgeons are usually reduced to a minimum.

In what cases can complications arise?

Complications can usually be caused by the surgeon’s inexperience or the patient’s health condition not being suitable for the intervention. In addition, some patients may experience problems during the healing process. For example, tissue reactions, graft displacement, or incompatibility of the new prosthesis can lead to complications. If the patient does not follow the postoperative instructions, postoperative problems such as ear infections or bleeding can develop. In addition, situations such as the stapedectomy prosthesis not working properly or the implanted prosthesis not providing hearing benefit can also lead to complications. Complications can vary, especially depending on the patient’s age, general health, and previous ear diseases. In summary, complications can usually be prevented by correctly assessing the patient’s condition before surgery and providing careful postoperative care.

What can be done to minimize risks?

In order to minimize the risks of stapedectomy surgery, it is important for the patient to receive appropriate care before and after the surgery, as well as the surgeon’s experience. First of all, choosing the right surgeon will increase the patient’s chances of having the surgery successfully. In addition, the health status of the patients should be evaluated before the surgery. In particular, if there are any existing problems regarding the ear and general health, these conditions should be resolved before the surgeon. If patients smoke, they should quit smoking before the surgery to speed up the surgical process. Smoking can negatively affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is also extremely important for patients to follow their doctors’ instructions in the post-operative process. Regular check-ups, reducing the risk of infection, avoiding heavy physical activities and preventing situations that may damage the eardrum are necessary. In addition, the patient should be informed about anesthesia practices and should be carefully monitored after surgery.

Stapedectomy Turkey Cost 2025

The price range may increase depending on the hospital where the surgery is performed and the materials used. After the surgery, follow-up and rehabilitation services may also affect the cost. In addition, factors such as the patient’s level of hearing loss and necessary tests before the procedure may also create additional costs. Patients may be required to pay an additional fee for prosthetics after the surgery. However, since prices may vary by region and clinic, it is recommended that patients get detailed information about prices before surgery.