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Overview

Stapedotomy is a microsurgical procedure performed to improve hearing in individuals with otosclerosis — a condition that causes abnormal bone formation around the stapes bone (one of the three small bones in the middle ear). This bone becomes fixed and unable to transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear, leading to progressive hearing loss.

During the procedure, part of the stapes bone is carefully opened and replaced with a tiny prosthesis, which restores the normal transmission of sound waves and significantly improves hearing.

What is stapedotomy?

Stapedotomy is a precision ear surgery that involves creating a small hole in the fixed stapes footplate and inserting a microscopic prosthesis. This allows sound to pass efficiently to the inner ear (cochlea), improving hearing ability while preserving delicate ear structures.

When is stapedotomy recommended?

Your ENT specialist may recommend a stapedotomy if you have:

  • Otosclerosis causing conductive hearing loss
  • Progressive hearing difficulty not improved with hearing aids
  • Bilateral (both ears) or severe conductive hearing loss
  • No evidence of inner ear disease or infection
  • Hearing tests and imaging are performed before surgery to confirm suitability.
How is stapedotomy performed?
  • The procedure is done under local or general anesthesia.
  • A microscope or endoscope is used to visualize the middle ear.
  • The surgeon removes part of the fixed stapes bone and creates a small opening in its base (footplate).
  • A piston-like prosthesis is inserted to connect the incus (another tiny bone) to the inner ear.
  • The prosthesis allows normal sound conduction.
  • The surgery typically takes 45–60 minutes and requires no external incision.
Is stapedotomy safe?

Yes. Stapedotomy is a safe and effective surgery when performed by an experienced ENT or otologic surgeon. Possible but rare complications include:

  • Temporary dizziness or imbalance
  • Taste changes
  • Mild ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Very rarely, partial hearing loss
  • These risks are minimized through modern microsurgical techniques and intraoperative monitoring.
What is recovery like after stapedotomy?
  • Hospital stay: Usually day-care or overnight observation
  • Rest: Light activity for 3–5 days
  • Avoid: Sneezing, blowing nose, heavy lifting, or air travel for 2–3 weeks
  • Hearing improvement: Usually noticeable within a few weeks
  • Follow-up: Regular check-ups and hearing tests to monitor progress

Most patients resume work and normal activities within a week.

What results can I expect from stapedotomy?
  • Significant improvement in hearing — often 20–30 decibels gain
  • Reduction in tinnitus (ringing sound)
  • Improved speech clarity and sound perception
  • Long-lasting results when postoperative instructions are followed
What is the difference between stapedotomy and stapedectomy?
  • Stapedectomy: Entire stapes bone removed and replaced
  • Stapedotomy: Small hole created in stapes; prosthesis inserted

Stapedotomy offers faster recovery, fewer complications, and better long-term hearing results.

Call to Action

If you are experiencing hearing loss due to otosclerosis or middle ear conditions, the ENT & Otology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced stapedotomy surgery using microscopic and endoscopic techniques to restore natural hearing safely and effectively.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our expert ENT surgeons and audiology specialists.

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