STAPES REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION-Removal of the stapes, one of the bones in the middle ear that transmit sound waves to the inner ear. The stapes is also called the stirrup.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-External ear canal; eardrum; middle ear; stapes.

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Improvement of hearing ability or prevention of continued hearing loss, usually due to otosclerosis.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleeping pills; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist).

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; hearing tests.
• After surgery: Hearing tests.

ANESTHESIA-General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• If both ears affected, surgery is done on separate occasions.
• The operating microscope is positioned, and an incision is made in the middle ear.
• The small bones in the ear are identified, and the stapes is isolated and removed.
• Sometimes, a prosthesis made of stainless steel wire and cellulose sponge is inserted to replace the stapes.
• Blood and fluid are suctioned gently from the ear.
• The wound is closed with fine sutures, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-5 to 6 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing of the surgical wound without complications. Hearing should improve immediately. Allow about 3 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

† Avoid people with upper--

respiratory infections until your healing is complete.

• Avoid loud noises and sudden pressure changes, such as those caused by flying in non-pressurized aircraft or scuba diving, for the rest of your life.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Return to daily activities and work as soon as possible to promote healing.
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery.
• Resume driving 3 weeks after returning home.

DIET-Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† Hearing does not improve within 2 days after surgery.

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience new symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting or constipation.