Stapedotomy/Exploratory tympanotomy

What is it?

Stapedotomy/Exploratory tympanotomy is the surgical treatment of otosclerosis/hearing loss, a condition characterised by the progressive overgrowth around the stapes footplate, which can result in conductive hearing loss since the affected bone becomes immovable and sometimes gets attached to the other nearby ossicles. Though this condition can be suspected on clinical evaluation, surgical examination is required for confirmation as it needs to be differentiated from other conditions which mimic this. Exploratory tympanotomy is the procedure performed for this confirmation.

What is the aim of the procedure?

The aim of this procedure is to identify the cause for hearing loss and recover the loss as much as possible.

What is done during the procedure?

During the procedure the middle ear and the ossicles are examined for pathologies. Then the stapes is removed and replaced with a piston to restore mobility of the ossicles. This is usually done through the ear canal using an endoscope.

The procedure might require general anesthesia. If you have any concern, discuss this with your anesthetist. 

What are the risks associated with the procedure?

• Worsening of hearing loss

• Loss of taste

• Giddiness

• Infection of the operated site.

• Bleeding

• Discharge from the ear

• Ringing sensation in the ear

• Facial nerve palsy

• Ear drum perforation

• Persistence of hearing loss (may require hearing aid placement)

Post-operative care and follow-up:

You will be discharged on the day following the surgery, if no complications are encountered. You will be asked to follow up with your doctor for upto 3 months post-surgery.

To avoid complications and discomfort following the procedure, please follow the instructions as given by your doctor. Please refer the patient education form for detailed instructions.