Have you also lost the ability to hear things spoken softly or whispered? Sometimes you can hear well when there is a lot of noise around you, but in a quiet place you can't hear someone speaking softly? If you have experienced this, it could be because of a problem with a small bone in your ear. Don't worry, today we will talk about the solution to this, the 'Stapedectomy' surgery.
Simply put, what is Stapedectomy?
A stapedectomy is a surgical procedure to restore your hearing. It is specifically done to repair damage to the middle ear caused by a condition called otosclerosis .
Imagine, inside our middle ear, there are three very small bones that conduct sound waves to the inner ear. The last of these, the smallest bone, is shaped like the letter 'U' and is called the stapes . In otosclerosis, this stapes bone fuses with the surrounding bone tissue, or rather, it becomes stuck together. Then, the flexibility needed to properly transmit sound waves is lost.
So, in a stapedectomy, doctors remove the damaged stapes bone and replace it with an artificial device that functions similarly. This allows sound waves to travel without interference again.
How do I know if I might need this surgery?
If you have hearing loss and your doctor has confirmed that it is caused by otosclerosis, you may be recommended this surgery. There are several main symptoms of otosclerosis.
- Hearing things spoken slowly becomes difficult: Over time, things spoken in whispers and low-pitched sounds become difficult to hear.
- Feeling like you can hear better in noisy environments: Surprisingly, some people can hear conversations clearly when there is a lot of ambient noise.
- Lowering your voice when speaking: Some people start speaking more slowly because they hear their own voice too loudly.
- Vertigo and dizziness: Balance problems and dizziness may occur.
- Tinnitus: A persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears .
If you have one or more of these, the best thing to do is see a doctor as soon as possible and have your ears checked.
What tests are done before surgery?
Before recommending surgery, your doctor will carefully study your hearing loss. He or she may perform several tests, such as:
| Test | Simply put, what happens? |
|---|---|
| Medical history inquiry | They will ask you how long you have been deaf, if anyone in your family has this condition, and if you have any vertigo or other problems. |
| Physical examination | They check for ear infections and to see if the eardrum is healthy. |
| Hearing test (Audiometry) | It measures how your ear responds to different sound levels and frequencies. This is how you can determine the exact level of hearing loss. |
| Tympanometry (eardrum pressure test) | A small device is used to check the function of the eardrum and the pressure in the middle ear. |
| CT Scan | This allows you to get a clear image of the delicate bones and tissues inside the ear and see exactly where the problem is. |
How the surgery is performed and recovery time
Stapedectomy is not usually considered a major operation. It can usually be completed in about an hour and a half to two hours . You may be given general anesthesia, or you may be given local anesthesia to numb just the area around your ear.
During the surgery, the doctor uses a laser beam or very fine instruments to enter the middle ear through the eardrum. The damaged stapes bone is then removed, an artificial device is implanted in its place, and the eardrum is returned to its original position and closed delicately.
What to expect after surgery?
You will be able to go home the same day after anesthesia. It is very important to rest for the first few days.
- Pain: You may feel some pain or discomfort after the surgery. You can use painkillers prescribed by your doctor for this.
- Discharge from the ear: In the early days, there may be a liquid discharge with a little blood. Place a clean cotton ball in the ear to stop it.
- Keep the ear dry: This is very important. When bathing, place a cotton ball with a little Vaseline in the ear and then gently wipe the area around the ear.
- Avoid air travel: Avoid flying for at least 4-6 weeks. Air pressure can damage the newly implanted device.
- Do not use earbuds: Do not wear earbuds until your ear is completely healed.
- Recovery time: You can usually return to normal activities within a week. However, if you do heavy lifting or strenuous work, your doctor may advise you to rest for a little longer.
Risks of surgery and when to seek medical advice
Like any surgery, there are some risks. However, this surgery is successful in over 90% of cases . Some people may not have a complete recovery, and in rare cases, their hearing may be slightly reduced.
| Possible complications | Description |
|---|---|
| Dizziness | You may feel dizzy for a few days after surgery. This usually goes away. |
| Change in taste | Taste sensation on one side of the tongue may be temporarily reduced. This will return to normal within a few months. |
| Tinnitus | Tinnitus may be new or may worsen if present. |
| You should see a doctor immediately if you have these symptoms: | |
| |
Otosclerosis is not your fault. But you don't have to live with hearing loss for the rest of your life. Stapedectomy is a very effective solution. If you have these symptoms, don't hesitate to see a doctor and get advice.
Take-Home Message
- Stapedectomy is a very successful surgery for hearing loss caused by otosclerosis.
- This involves removing the small bone in the ear called the stapes and implanting an artificial device in its place.
- If you experience symptoms such as difficulty hearing things spoken slowly, dizziness, or ringing in the ears, see a doctor.
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully after surgery, especially keeping your ear dry and avoiding air travel.
- If you experience excessive pain, dizziness, or signs of infection after surgery, seek medical advice immediately.
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