Outcome of stapedotomy – laser vs. conventional perforation: results at the University Hospital Münster

Introduction Otosclerosis is characterised by a progressive hearing loss as a result of stapes-ankylosis due to pathological bone rebuilding processes. Therapy for otosclerosis is surgical: after perforating the footplate a prothesis is inserted. Besides the use of micro instruments, the possibility of a ,no touch technique‘ using a laser has emerged. The postoperative outcome of both methods shall be compared.

Methods The audiometric results of 100 patiens who underwent stapes surgery in 2017 and 2020 have been analysed. In 50 cases the conventional technique was used while 50 operations were performed with a KTP laser. The functional gain due to the reduction of the air bone gap in 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 Hz as well as the four-frequency average were assessed.

Results Significant reduction of the air bone gap was observed in both groups. Comparing the audiometric outcome of conventional and laser stapedotomy, there was no significant difference, as well as regarding perioperative complications. Among the 68 examined cases there was only one patient who suffered from postoperative deafness.

Conclusion Providing sufficient experience, laser stapedotomy is a safe technique with good audiometric outcome. However, in addition to a long term follow up a greater number of cases is required to assess its possible advantages (lower risk of footplate fracture and sensorineural hearing loss).

Poster-PDF A-1643.pdf

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021