What Is a Stapedectomy and When Is It Recommended?
A stapedectomy is a type of ear surgery done to improve hearing. In this procedure, the doctor removes a tiny bone called the stapes from the middle ear and replaces it with a small artificial piece (prosthesis). The stapes is one of the three small bones that help carry sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. If this bone becomes fixed and cannot move well, sound cannot pass properly, which leads to hearing loss. Stapedectomy helps fix this problem so sound can reach the inner ear again. Stapedectomy is often done for people with a condition called otosclerosis, where the stapes bone becomes hard and stuck. The surgery is usually done by an ear specialist (ENT surgeon) and can take about 90 minutes. Most people go home on the same day or after a short stay in the hospital.
Purpose & Benefits of Stapedectomy
● Improves hearing by restoring sound flow to the inner ear
● Treats hearing loss caused by otosclerosis
● Reduces dependence on hearing aids
● Helps people hear conversations and daily sounds better
● Can improve quality of life and communication
Who May Need Stapedectomy?
● People with conductive hearing loss due to stapes fixation
● Patients with otosclerosis confirmed by tests
● Those who struggle to hear soft sounds or conversations
● People whose hearing aids do not help enough
● Patients in good general health to undergo surgery
Types of Stapedectomy
(Stapedectomy does not have many “types”, but there are variations based on surgical technique and extent.)
Total Stapedectomy
This is when the surgeon removes the entire stapes bone and replaces it with a prosthetic device.
Partial Stapedectomy
Also known as “stapedotomy”, where only part of the stapes bone is removed and a small hole is made to place the prosthesis. This is a common variation and is often used depending on surgeon preference.
Both methods aim to improve sound transmission through the middle ear.
Stapedectomy Procedure: Step-by-Step
1. Medical Evaluation:
The doctor checks your hearing and overall health before surgery.
2. Anaesthesia:
You receive local or general anaesthesia, so you won’t feel pain.
3. Middle Ear Access:
The surgeon reaches the middle ear through the ear canal or with a small incision.
4. Remove the Stapes Bone:
The fixed stapes bone is carefully removed.
5. Place Prosthesis:
A tiny artificial device (prosthesis) replaces the stapes to help sound travel.
6. Close:
The ear area is closed and packed gently to protect the ear during healing.
7. Recovery Monitoring:
You are watched until the anaesthesia wears off. Most people go home the same day.
The surgery usually takes about 1–2 hours depending on individual cases.
Recovery & Aftercare
After stapedectomy:
● Your ear may feel full or slightly uncomfortable.
● Mild dizziness or headache is common for a few days.
● Keep water out of the ear until the doctor says it is safe.
● Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or blowing your nose for several weeks.
● Most people return to normal activities in 1–2 weeks, and full healing may take 4–6 weeks.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments for best results.
Risks & Possible Complications
Stapedectomy is usually safe, but like all surgery, it has risks:
● Hearing may not improve as expected
● Hearing could stay the same or rarely get worse
● Dizziness or balance problems
● Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
● Change in taste or loss of taste on one side
● Infection or pain at the surgery site
● Very rare serious complications like facial nerve problems or total hearing loss
Talk to your doctor about your personal risks before surgery.
Stapedectomy vs Other Hearing Loss Treatments
● Stapedectomy:
A surgical procedure that replaces the stapes bone; can restore natural hearing in many cases.
● Hearing Aids:
A non-surgical option that amplifies sound; useful when surgery is not suitable or preferred.
● Stapedotomy:
A variation of stapedectomy with smaller bone removal and prosthesis placement.
Stapedectomy often offers more permanent improvement than hearing aids but is more invasive.
Otolaryngology
ENT
Surgery