Brazilian Society of Otology task force - Otosclerosis: evaluation and treatment

Abstract Objectives: To review and provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of otosclerosis. Methods: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on otosclerosis were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results: The topics were divided into 2 parts: 1) Diagnosis - audiologic and radiologic; 2) Treatment - hearing AIDS, pharmacological therapy, stapes surgery, and implantable devices - bone-anchored devices, active middle ear implants, and Cochlear Implants (CI). Conclusions: The pathophysiology of otosclerosis has not yet been fully elucidated, but environmental factors and unidentified genes are likely to play a significant role in it. Women with otosclerosis are not at increased risk of worsening clinical condition due to the use of contraceptives or during pregnancy. Drug treatment has shown little benefit. If the patient does not want to undergo stapedotomy, the use of hearing aids is well indicated. Implantable systems should be indicated only in rare cases, and the CI should be indicated in cases of profound deafness.

Importance of Diameter of Long Process of Incus in Stapedotomy-New Findings From In Vivo Study

Abstract Introduction Stapes surgery for otosclerosis is a precise surgical procedure. To achieve excellent hearing results, a firm and stable attachment of the prosthesis to the long process of incus (LPI) is necessary. The present study provides details on the attachment site in two dimensions to choose an appropriate prosthesis and to ensure firm attachment for better surgical outcomes. Objective To study the diameter of the LPI and its relevance in determining the piston, used in stapes surgery by an in vivo method. Methods This study was conducted in 41 patients who underwent stapedotomy, where both Anteroposterior (AP) and Mediolateral (ML) diameters of the LPI were measured at the site of attachment of the piston using specially designed instruments, intraoperatively. Radiological data were obtained to measure the LPI diameter from the normal ears of 46 patients. It was measured from both the right and left side, hence 92 LPI diameters were obtained. Results The most commonly used site for prosthesis attachment is between 1-1.5 mm away from the tip of the LPI. We found great variability in the diameters of LPI in the attachment site, with the AP diameter ranging between 0.6 -1.5mm and the ML diameter ranging between 0.5mm-1.2mm. Conclusion Pistons by design have characteristics of gripping incus that will vary between types. Based on LPI dimensions, ideal piston types with appropriate inner loop diameters are suggested in this study. HRCT before surgery should include measurements of the LPI as a guide to the choice of the prosthesis during surgery.

Comparison of Short-Term Hearing Outcome in Stapedotomy Using either Vein or Fat (Adipose Tissue) as Sealing Material

Abstract Introduction Otosclerosis is a common cause of conductive hearing loss in the adult population that is caused by fixation of the stapes footplate. Cochlear otosclerosis may also present with sensorineural or mixed hearing loss. Surgery is the definitive treatment of choice and, during the procedure, sealing of the oval window with autologous tissue graft around the stapes prosthesis has been routinely done to improve hearing outcome and to mitigate postoperative complications. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of two different types of autologous tissue (vein or fat) grafts as oval window sealing materials in stapedotomy in improving short-term hearing outcomes. Methods In our study, 70 patients with otosclerosis who underwent primary stapedotomy were included. They were divided into group 1 (vein graft) and group 2 (fat graft) based on the type of sealing material used. All patients were followed-up at the end of 3 months, undergoing an audiometric examination to assess the hearing outcome. Results A total of 80% (n = 28) of the patients in group1 had an air-bone gap (ABG) closure < 10dB, and, in group 2, 85.7% had an ABG closure < 10 dB; this difference was found to be statistically insignificant. A total of 42.9% (n = 15) of the patients in group 1 and of 31.4% (n = 11) in group 2 had a significant improvement in bone conduction, while 14.3% (n = 5) of the patients in group 1 and 17.1% (n = 6) in group 2 had worsening of average bone conduction postoperatively, which was found to be statistically insignificant. Conclusions Both vein and fat grafts had comparable effects on hearing outcomes when used as sealing materials in stapedotomy.

Wideband Acoustic Absorbance in Otosclerosis: Does Stapedotomy Restore Normal Tympanic Cavity Function?

Abstract Introduction Otosclerosis is characterized by the fixation of the stapes to the oval window, thereby impairing acoustic signal absorbance. A commonly used surgical technique for improving hearing in cases of otosclerosis is stapedotomy. However, it is unclear whether this surgery restores all the physical characteristics of the tympano-ossicular system. Objective To evaluate the tympano-ossicular system in individuals with fenestral otosclerosis pre and poststapedotomy using wideband tympanometry. Method A total of 47 individuals and 71 ears were assessed. The subjects were divided into three groups: presurgery otosclerosis; postsurgery; and a control group of normal-hearing adults. A handheld tympanometer with a wideband module (226-8,000 Hz) was used to take measurements at ambient pressure and under pressurized conditions. The level of statistical significance adopted was p ≤ 0.05. Results Acoustic absorbance at 226 Hz was low for all groups. At frequencies in the range 630 to 5,040 Hz, each group had a characteristic absorbance curve, allowing them to be distinguished from one another. In the presurgery group, absorbance values were below normal levels, with energy absorbance below 10%. Low energy absorbance was most evident at 1,000 Hz in the presurgery group, but this was not observed in the postsurgery group. Although there was an improvement in hearing, the surgery failed to restore the tympano-ossicular system to normal. Conclusion Wideband acoustic absorbance proved able to differentiate normal ears and otosclerotic ears pre and postsurgery, under both ambient pressure and pressurized conditions.

Tinnitus and Otosclerosis: An Exploratory Study about the Prevalence, Features and Impact in Daily Life

Abstract Introduction Tinnitus is experienced by a significant part of the patients suffering from otosclerosis. Objective To assess the prevalence of tinnitus in otosclerosis, its main features, and the impact on the daily life. Methods Patients diagnosed with otosclerosis in 2019 in a tertiary hospital were enrolled in the study. Demographic data were retrieved and, besides a regular audiometric evaluation, the patients underwent acuphenometry to assess the psychoacoustic measurements (pitch and loudness), and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Results In total, 66 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with a female predominance (63.6%; n = 42), and a mean age of 48.7 years. The mean air-bone gap was of 26.3 dB. A total of 72.7% complained of tinnitus; it was mostly unilateral, identified in the low frequencies, namely 500 Hz, with median loudness of 7.5 dB. The median score on the THI score was of 37; most patients had a mild handicap (33.3%, n = 16), followed by those with a severe handicap (22.9%; n = 11). The female gender had a statistically significant association with the presence of tinnitus. The THI scores were higher in middle-aged patients (age groups: 40 to 49 and 50 to 59 years), which was statistically significant. No correlation was found between audiometry results and the prevalence of tinnitus or score on the THI. On the other hand, high-pitched tinnitus, compared to low pitched-tinnitus, was associated with larger air-bone gaps. Conclusion The prevalence of tinnitus in our population was in line with the prevalences reported in the literature. It caused a catastrophic handicap in 22.9% of the patients. High-pitched tinnitus was associated with higher handicap. Nonetheless, the existence of tinnitus and its severity were not associated with the degree of hearing loss.

Revision Stapedotomies: The Role of Periprosthetic Scar Tissue Formation in the Development of Unsatisfactory Hearing Results after Stapedotomy

Abstract Introduction Revision stapes surgeries are difficult to perform, and their audiological results are inferior to primary surgeries. Objective Our goal was to identify the most common and most influential postoperative reasons that cause persistent air-bone gap (ABG) after the primary surgery. Our focus was concentrated on the mechanical dysfunctions in the middle ear, with special regard to postoperative adhesion formation. Methods We performed a retrospective case series study with 23 cases that underwent revision stapedotomies. Results A significant improvement was seen in ABG and air conduction levels after surgery. The periprosthetic adhesion formation was seen in 65% of the cases, and it was the primary cause behind the unsatisfactory hearing result in 30% of cases. There was no significant difference in the level of persistent ABGs after the primary surgery, in case of the intratympanic adhesion presence, compared with the presence of other surgical failures. Concerning hearing and ABG gain after revision surgery, the non-inferiority of the negative effect associated with adhesion was shown compared with the other reasons. Conclusion The revision stapedotomy is an efficient treatment option in case of persistent ABG. Periprosthetic adhesions are the most common intratympanic reasons for compromised audiological outcomes after stapedotomy.

Facteurs scannographiques influençant les résultats audiométriques post opératoires dans l'otospongiose / Computed tomographic factors influencing postoperative audiometric results in otosclerosis

Etudier les facteurs pronostiques scannographiques de l'otospongiose en corrélant les résultats audiométriques post opératoires aux données scannographiques préopératoires. Méthodes: Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective, descriptive et analytique entre Janvier 2013 et Décembre 2018. Elle a inclus 50 patients soit 54 oreilles opérées pour otospongiose, explorés en préopératoire par une tomodensitométrie (TDM) des rochers et en postopératoire par des audiogrammes. Les critères de succès fonctionnel étaient un rinne résiduel postopératoire (RRPO) ≤10 dB et une réserve cochléaire (RC) ≤0. Résultats: La sensibilité de la TDM pour le diagnostic d'otospongiose était de 94% et le type II de la classification de Veillon était le plus fréquent (41%). La confrontation des données de la TDM préopératoire aux résultats audiométriques a permis d'identifier comme facteurs tomodensitométriques de bon pronostic audiométrique: les stades radiologiques localisés type I et II de Veillon et l'absence d'effraction endostée. L'absence d'atteinte de la fenêtre ronde ainsi que l'absence de variantes anatomiques étaient corrélées à un meilleur taux de fermeture du rinne en postopératoire. L'étude multivariée n'a pas retenu de facteurs scannographiques indépendants de succès fonctionnel. Conclusion: D'après notre étude, il s'avère que la tomodensitométrie des rochers préopératoire ne prédit pas le résultat audiométrique de la chirurgie de l'otospongiose. Néanmoins, elle reste indispensable pour la confirmation diagnostique, la classification de la maladie et la détection des anomalies associées.

Juvenile otosclerosis: radio-clinical features and outcomes of surgical treatment

Purpose: To review the radio-clinical features and to evaluate the outcomes of surgery approaches for the treatment of otosclerosis in pediatric population. Methods: It's a retrospective study including 12 patients under 18 years of age, diagnosed with otosclerosis and using data over a 24 ­ year ­period (1996-2020). A clinical examination, an audiometric assessment and a computed tomography of the temporal bone (CT-Scan) prior to surgery had been performed in all cases. All patients underwent surgical treatment under general anesthesia. Follow ­up was essentially clinical and audiometric with a mean period of 4years. Results: Mean age of our patients was 15.3 with a ratio of 0.5. Only three of them had a family history of otosclerosis. Major functional sign was hearing loss; tinnitus was noted in only 5 cases. CT-Scan had shown typical radiographic evidence of otosclerosis grade Ia (Veillon classification) in 9 cases, grade Ib in 1 case and no abnormalities in 2 cases. Surgery was performed in all cases: 8 patients underwent stapedotomy and 4 had stapedectomy. The audiometric results were good, air-bone gap closure to within 10 dB was achieved in 84% of cases (10 cases) and to within 20dB in 100% of cases at last follow-up. Conclusion: Audiometric and radiological assessments are essential to guide the diagnosis and the treatment of juvenile otosclerosis. Stapes surgery is a good option for closing the air-bone gap in children with bilateral juvenile otosclerosis

Juvenile otosclerosis: radio-clinical features and outcomes of surgical treatment

Purpose: To review the radio-clinical features and to evaluate the outcomes of surgery approaches for the treatment of otosclerosis in pediatric population. Methods: It's a retrospective study including 12 patients under 18 years of age, diagnosed with otosclerosis and using data over a 24 ­ year ­period (1996-2020). A clinical examination, an audiometric assessment and a computed tomography of the temporal bone (CT-Scan) prior to surgery had been performed in all cases. All patients underwent surgical treatment under general anesthesia. Follow ­up was essentially clinical and audiometric with a mean period of 4years. Results: Mean age of our patients was 15.3 with a ratio of 0.5. Only three of them had a family history of otosclerosis. Major functional sign was hearing loss; tinnitus was noted in only 5 cases. CT-Scan had shown typical radiographic evidence of otosclerosis grade Ia (Veillon classification) in 9 cases, grade Ib in 1 case and no abnormalities in 2 cases. Surgery was performed in all cases: 8 patients underwent stapedotomy and 4 had stapedectomy. The audiometric results were good, air-bone gap closure to within 10 dB was achieved in 84% of cases (10 cases) and to within 20dB in 100% of cases at last follow-up. Conclusion: Audiometric and radiological assessments are essential to guide the diagnosis and the treatment of juvenile otosclerosis. Stapes surgery is a good option for closing the air-bone gap in children with bilateral juvenile otosclerosis

Imaging Studies in Otosclerosis: An Up-to-date Comprehensive Review

Abstract Introduction Otosclerosis is a primary osteodystrophy of the otic capsule, frequently responsible for acquired hearing loss in adults. Although the diagnostic value of imaging investigations in otosclerosis is debatable, they might still be employed with different goals within the context of the disease. Objectives The present paper aims to review the most recent literature on the use of imaging studies in otosclerosis for the most varied purposes, from routine application and differential diagnosis to prognostic prediction and investigation of surgical failure. Data Synthesis The diagnosis of otosclerosis is usually clinical, but computed tomography (CT) is paramount in particular cases for the differential diagnosis. The routine use, however, is not supported by strong evidence. Even so, there is growing evidence of the role of this method in surgical planning and prediction of postoperative prognosis. In specific scenarios, for example when superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome is suspected or in surgical failure, CT is crucial indeed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), however, has limited - although important - indications in the management of individuals with otosclerosis, especially in the evaluation of postoperative complications and in the follow-up of medical treatment in active ostosclerosis. Conclusion Imaging studies have a broad range of well-established indications in otosclerosis. Besides, although the routine use of CT remains controversial, the most recent papers have shed light into new potential benefits of imaging prior to surgery.

Caracterización de pacientes con otosclerosis con estapedotomia a través de abordaje trascanal y retroauricular en un hospital universitario / Characterization of patients with otosclerosis with transcanal and retroauricular stapedotomy in a university hospital

Introducción: la otosclerosis manejada quirúrgicamente con estapedotomía ha mostrado mejora del umbral auditivo mediante un abordaje transcanal o retroauricular. Objetivo: caracterizar la respuesta al tratamiento quirúrgico con estapedotomía transcanal y retroauricular en pacientes con diagnóstico de otosclerosis en un centro universitario. Diseño: estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo tipo serie de casos. Metodología: se incluyeron pacientes con diagnósticos de otosclerosis atendidos en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael quienes cumplieron criterios de elegibilidad entre 2014 y 2020. Resultados: Se incluyeron 33 pacientes intervenidos con abordaje transcanal y 8 con abordaje retroauricular, la edad promedio fue de 46,6 años. La mayoría de pacientes fue de sexo femenino (56,1 %). Se evidenció una mejora del umbral auditivo en el 89,9 % del total de la muestra. La presencia de variantes anatómicas se describió en un 26,8 %, la variante más común fue el prolapso del nervio cuerda del tímpano (14,5 %). La complicación intraoperatoria más común fue la sección del nervio cuerda del tímpano (9,8 %). La presencia de complicaciones y variantes anatómicas fue más prevalente con abordaje retroauricular. Conclusiones: la estapedotomía con abordaje retroauricular y transcanal mostró mejoría del umbral auditivo equiparable a la literatura mundial, la presencia de variantes anatómicas se correlacionó con complicaciones posoperatorias.

Introduction: Otosclerosis managed surgically with stapedotomy has shown improvement in hearing threshold using a transcanal or retroauricular approach. Objective: To characterize the response to surgical treatment with transcanal and retroauricular stapedotomy in patients diagnosed with otosclerosis in a university center. Design: Retrospective descriptive observational study, case series type. Methodology: Patients with a diagnosis of otosclerosis treated at the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael who met the eligibility criteria between 2014 and 2020 were included. Results: 33 patients operated with transcanal approach and 8 with retroauricular approach were included, the average age was 46.6 years. Most patients were female (56.1%). Hearing threshold improvement was evidenced in 89.9% of the total sample. The presence of anatomical variants was described in 26.8%, the most common variant was the prolapse of the chorda tympani nerve (14.5%). The most common intraoperative complication was eardrum cord nerve section (9.8%). The presence of complications and anatomic variants was more prevalent with retroauricular approach. Conclusion: Stapedotomy with retroauricular and transcanal approach showed improvement of hearing threshold comparable to the world literature, the presence of anatomical variants was correlated with postoperative complications.

Observed Frequency and Characteristics of Hearing Loss in Osteogenesis Imperfecta

ABSTRACT Background: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare group of genetic disorders affecting connective tissue, with consequent bone fragility, frequent fractures and skeletal deformity. Depending on the type, patients can have blue sclera, dentinogenesis imperfecta, and hearing loss. Aim: To determine the frequency, type and audiometric characteristics of hearing loss in a group of patients with OI. Material and Methods: A prospective cohort study was completed. A clinical and diagnostic hearing evaluation with tympanometry, acoustic stapedial reflex, pure-tone and speech audiometry were performed. Results: Thirty patients completed the study; mean age of 22 years (range 6-63 years). Sixty seven percent had a type I OI. Overall, nine (30%) patients had hearing loss (15/60 ears). Of these, six had bilateral hearing loss. Of the 15 affected ears, six showed conductive hearing loss, five sensorineural hearing loss, and four mixed hearing loss. Patients with hearing loss were older than patients with normal hearing. Only one pediatric patient developed hearing loss. Of the ears without hearing loss, 13% did not have an acoustic stapedial reflex. Conclusions: In this group of patients with OI, 30% had hearing loss and among those ears with normal hearing, 13% did not have an acoustic stapedial reflex. Patients with OI should be monitored for hearing loss.

Antecedentes: La osteogénesis imperfecta (OI) es un grupo raro de trastornos genéticos que afectan al tejido conectivo, con la consiguiente fragilidad ósea, fracturas frecuentes y deformidad esquelética. Según el tipo, los pacientes pueden presentar escleras azules, dentinogénesis imperfecta e hipoacusia. Objetivos: Determinar la frecuencia, tipo y características audiométricas de la hipoacusia en un grupo de pacientes con OI. Material y Métodos: Se completó un estudio de cohorte prospectivo. Se realizó una evaluación clínica, y de la audición con timpanometría, reflejo estapedial, audiometría tonal y logoaudiometría. Resultados: Treinta pacientes completaron el estudio; edad media de 22 años (rango 6-63 años). El 67% tenía una OI tipo I. Nueve pacientes (30%) tuvieron hipoacusia (15/60 oídos). De estos, seis tenían hipoacusia bilateral. De los 15 oídos afectados, seis tenían hipoacusia de conducción, cinco hipoacusia neurosensorial y cuatro hipoacusia mixta. Los pacientes con hipoacusia eran mayores que los pacientes con audición conservada. Sólo un paciente pediátrico desarrolló hipoacusia. De los oídos sin hipoacusia, el 13% tenía un reflejo estapedial ausente. Conclusiones: En este grupo de pacientes con OI, el 30% tenía hipoacusia. Además, el 13% de los oídos con audición normal no tenía reflejo acústico estapedial. Los pacientes con OI deben ser monitoreados para detectar hipoacusia.

Assessment of inflammatory markers in otosclerosis patients / Avaliação de marcadores de inflamação em pacientes com otosclerose

Abstract Introduction Otosclerosis is an idiopathic disease characterized by new bone formation in foci of the human otic capsule. It is more common in Caucasian populations; affecting females twice as often as males. Its etiopathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between otosclerosis and white blood cell and thrombocyte counts, mean platelet volume, neutrophil lymphocyte ratio, and the platelet lymphocyte ratio. Methods This retrospective case-control study was conducted in the outpatient clinic Mustafa Kemal University, in the department of otolaryngology, between 2015 and 2018. A total of 30 patients with an established diagnosis of otosclerosis were compared to a control group of 30 healthy subjects, matched for age, gender and body mass index. The white blood cell, thrombocyte, mean platelet volume, neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and platelet lymphocyte ratio values were calculated for all participants. Results There was no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to age, gender, or body mass index, or for the mean neutrophil lymphocyte ratio, platelet lymphocyte ratio, white blood cell, or thrombocyte values (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was determined between the groups for the mean platelet volume values. The mean platelet volume values were lower in the otosclerotic patients (p = 0.047). Conclusion These results show that neutrophil lymphocyte ratio, platelet lymphocyte ratio, white blood cell and thrombocytes should not be used to predict otosclerosis, but suggest that mean platelet volume may be a negative predictive marker.

Resumo Introdução A otosclerose é uma doença idiopática caracterizada por neoformação óssea em focos da cápsula ótica humana. É mais comum em populações caucasianas, afeta o sexo feminino numa taxa 2 vezes maior do que o masculino. A etiopatogenia ainda não foi totalmente elucidada. Objetivo Investigar a relação entre otosclerose e taxa de glóbulos brancos, plaquetas, volume plaquetário médio, relação neutrófilos-linfócitos e relação plaquetas-linfócitos. Método Estudo retrospectivo de caso-controle feito no ambulatório da Mustafa Kemal University, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, entre 2015 e 2018. Foram comparados 30 pacientes com diagnóstico estabelecido de otosclerose com um grupo controle de 30 indivíduos saudáveis, pareados por idade, sexo e índice de massa corpórea. Os valores de glóbulos brancos, plaquetas, volume plaquetário médio, relação neutrófilos-linfócitos e relação plaquetas/linfócitos foram calculados para todos os participantes. Resultados Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos em relação a idade, sexo ou índice de massa corpórea, ou em relação aos valores médios de relação neutrófilos-linfócitos, relação plaquetas/linfócitos, valores de glóbulos brancos e plaquetas (p > 0,05). Uma diferença estatisticamente significante foi observada entre os grupos em termos de valores médios de volume plaquetário médio. Os valores de volume plaquetário médio foram menores nos pacientes com otosclerose (p = 0,047). Conclusão A relação plaquetas/linfócitos, a relação plaquetas/linfócitos, os valores de glóbulos brancos e plaquetas não podem ser usados para predizer a otosclerose, mas sugerem que o volume plaquetário médio possa ser um marcador preditivo negativo.

Experiencia en estapedostomías en Hospital del Salvador entre 2012 y 2018 / Stapedotomy experience at Hospital del Salvador between 2012 and 2018

INTRODUCCIÓN: La otoesclerosis es una enfermedad de presumible origen metabólico que determina la fijación de la cadena osicular. La estapedostomía con instalación de prótesis es la cirugía de elección en la actualidad para esta patología. OBJETIVO: Describir experiencia y resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico de pacientes con otoesclerosis en el Hospital del Salvador entre los años 2012 y 2018. Material y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo mediante revisión de fichas clínicas de pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente en nuestro servicio desde enero de 2012 hasta septiembre de 2018 con sospecha de otoesclerosis. RESULTADOS: Se realizaron en total 52 cirugías a 45 pacientes, 40 vía microscópica, 10 vía endoscópica y 2 mixtas, se utilizaron dos modelos de prótesis, Schuknecht - type piston and wire y Stapes-Prothesen. El promedio tonal puro (PTP) por vía aérea prequirúrgico fue de 65 dB, con una diferencia ósea-aérea (gap) promedio de 36 dB. El PTP promedio posquirúrgico fue de 35 dB con gap promedio de 9 dB, logrando en promedio una mejoría de 31 dB en la vía aérea y 27 dB de cierre de gap. El 92% de los pacientes intervenidos lograron mejoría con respecto al gap posoperatorio. CONCLUSIÓN: La estapedostomía es una intervención que si bien no está exenta de complicaciones, ha demostrado ser segura y tener buenos resultados auditivos en la mayoría de los pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: Otosclerosis is a presumable metabolic disease that determines ossicular chain fixation. Stapedotomy with prosthesis installation is the surgery of choice for this pathology at present. AIM: To describe the experience and results of the surgical treatment of patients with otosclerosis in the Hospital del Salvador between 2012 and 2018. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical records were reviewed of patients treated surgically in our department from January 2012 to September 2018 with suspicion of otosclerosis. RESULTS: A total of 52 surgeries were performed in 45 patients, 42 via microscopy and 10 via endoscopy, two models of prostheses were used Schuknecht - type piston and wire y Stapes-Prothesen. The pure tonal average (PTP) by pre-surgical air was 65 dB, with an average air gap (gap) of 36 dB. The average post-surgical PTP was 35 dB with an average gap of 9 db, achieving on average an improvement of 31 dB in the airway and 27 dB of gap closure. 92% of the patients who underwent surgery improved with respect to the postoperative gap. CONCLUSION: The stapedotomy is an intervention that although not free of complications, has been shown to be safe and have good hearing results in most patients.

Estapedotomía con abordaje totalmente endoscópico para el manejo de otoesclerosis: experiencia de un hospital en Bogotá / Total endoscopic stapedotomy for otosclerosis: the experience of a hospital in Bogota

Objetivo: describir la experiencia en el manejo quirúrgico de la otoesclerosis con estapedotomía totalmente endoscópica en el Servicio de Otología del Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José en Bogotá, entre enero 2017 y diciembre 2018. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de serie de casos con recolección prospectiva, en el cual se evaluaron los pacientes con diagnóstico de otoesclerosis manejados con estapedotomía endoscópica para determinar hallazgos audiológicos prequirúrgicos, detalles de técnica quirúrgica, desenlace auditivo y complicaciones. Resultados: se incluyeron 10 pacientes con otoesclerosis manejados con estapedotomía totalmente endoscópica. La mediana del GAP aero-óseo (GAO) preoperatorio fue 22,4dB (RIQ 15,6-28,3), logoaudiometría con mediana de discriminación del lenguaje al 100% a 72,5dB (RIQ 67,5-77,5). GAO postoperatorio (POP) de 5,3db (RIQ 3,87-6,61), una mediana de logoaudiometría al 100% de 50dB (RIQ 46,25- 61,25). El 90% de pacientes requirió movilización del nervio cuerda del tímpano, ninguno con sección del mismo. El 90% requirió fresado de la pared posterosuperior. El 30% presentó procidencia del nervio facial grado 1. El 30% presentó disgeusia en el POP temprano que persistió en dos pacientes a los 3 meses POP. El 60% presentó vértigo en el POP inmediato, todos con resolución a los 3 meses. Ningún paciente presentó dolor en el POP inmediato, solo un paciente presentó dolor leve a los 8 días. Conclusión: la estapedotomía totalmente endoscópica para el manejo de la otoesclerosis, ha demostrado ser una opción terapéutica segura con alta tasa de éxito, mejoría auditiva con un cierre GAO exitoso y bajo riesgo de complicaciones.

Objective: to describe the experience in the surgical management of otosclerosis with total endoscopic stapedotomy in the Otology Department of the Hospital Universitario Infantil de San José in Bogotá, between January 2017 and December 2018. Methods: descriptive case series. Patients diagnosed with otosclerosis who were managed with endoscopic stapedotomy were evaluated to determine preoperative audiologic testing, details of the surgical technique, auditory outcomes and complications. Results: ten cases of otosclerosis managed with endoscopic stapedotomy were included. The median preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) was 22,4 DB (IQR 15.6-28.3) and in the speech audiometry the median speech discrimination was 100% at 72.5 dB (IQR 67.5-77, 5). The postoperative ABG was 5.3 dB (IQR 3,87- 6,61) and in the speech audiometry the median speech discrimination was 100% at 50 dB with a (IQR 46.25-61.25). 90% of the patients required mobilization of the corda tympani nerve and none required section of it. 90% required drilling or curettage of the scutum. 30% presented with grade 1 facial nerve prolapse. 30% presented disgeusia, 60% immediate postoperative vertigo with resolution at 3 months and no patient presented pain in immediate postoperative. Conclusion: endoscopic stapedotomy for the management of otosclerosis has proven to be a safe treatment option with high success rates, auditory improvement with a successful ABG closure and low risk of complications.

Experiencia en estapedotomía en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael entre 2018 y 2019 / Experience in stapedotomy at the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael between 2018 and 2019

Objetivo: describir la experiencia de los pacientes llevados a una estapedotomía en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael en los años 2018 y 2019. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en el que se revisaron un total de 32 historias de pacientes intervenidos con una estapedotomía entre los años 2018 y 2019 en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael. Resultados: entre los años 2018 y 2019 se realizaron 32 estapedotomías, 62 % en mujeres, con una media de edad de 48,1 años, el 54,9 % fueron en el oído derecho; al 84,3 % se le realizó un abordaje transcanal, en el 78,1 % se usó prótesis Clip-pistón, en el 46,8 % se usaron prótesis de 4,75 mm; en el 69,7 % de los casos presentaban hipoacusia moderada preoperatoria, 6 pacientes presentaron vértigo, solo en 1 paciente se presentó Gusher como complicación y 1 perforación timpánica; en el 100 % de los pacientes se encontró un cierre satisfactorio del GAP de la vía aérea y ósea. Conclusión: la estapedotomía es un procedimiento que se realizó de manera exitosa en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael durante los años 2018 y 2019, teniendo en cuenta los buenos resultados auditivos posoperatorios dados por el cierre de la brecha entre la vía aérea y la vía ósea.

Objective: describe the experience of stapedotomy patients at the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael in the years 2018 and 2019. Material and method: descriptive study in which a total of 32 medical records of patients undergoing stapedotomy between 2018 and 2019 at the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael were reviewed. Results: between 2018 and 2019, 32 stapedotomies were registered, 62% female, with a mean age of 48.1 years, 54.9% in right ear; 84.3 % with transcanal approach, 78.1% Clip-piston prostheses were used, in 46.8 % 4.75 mm prostheses were used; 69.7 % presented moderate preoperative hearing loss, 6 patients presented vertigo, only 1 patient presented a gusher complication and 1 tympanic perforation. 100 % of the patients had a satisfactory air-bone gap closure. Conclusion: stapedotomy is a successful procedure performed at the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael during 2018 and 2019, considering the excellent postoperative auditory results given by the air-bone gap closure.

Audiological Analysis of 62 Patients with Otosclerosis Undergoing Stapedotomy with Slow-speed Microdrill

Background: Otosclerosis is not an uncommon condition in Telangana. Various methods such as perforator and laser are usedin performing stapedotomy during its surgical management. Stapedotomy performed with slow-speed microdrill technique forotosclerosis, and difficulties encountered during surgery, complications, and auditory gain in the post-operative period wereanalyzed in this study.Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to use low-speed microdrill technique in stapedotomy and to analyze the difficulties,complications, and audiological evaluation in the post-operative period of 18 months.Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 62 patients undergoing stapedotomy for otosclerosis over a period of 2 yearswas reviewed. Stapedotomy with skeeter microdrill was evaluated using audiometric results (air conduction thresholds, boneconduction thresholds, air-bone gap closure, and pure tone average) and the incidence of complications during post-operativeperiod. Teflon prosthesis was used in all the patients.Observations and Results: Among the 62 patients, there were 37 females (59.67%) and 25 males (40.32%) with a male-tofemale ratio of 1:1.48. The patients belonged to the age group of 25–55 years with a mean age of 32.65 ± 4.15 years.Conclusions: Stapedotomy performed with microdrill technique for otosclerosis was a safe surgical technique to perforate thestapes footplate. The microdrill (skeeter) has low noise intensity and low torque. For duration of a few seconds, it seems to bea safe tool in creating a perforation in the footplate of the stapes, without causing acoustic trauma.

Evaluation of the safety and effect of the endoscopic stapes surgery: a multi-center study / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#To analyze the safety of endoscopic stapes surgery, and to compare the results with stapes surgery under microscopic approach.@*Methods@#This was a retrospective study. One hundred and thirty seven patients from Eye Ear Nose and Throat Hospital of Fudan University and other seven hospitals were enrolled in this study. Eighty eight patients, in whom 29 were male, and 59 were female, aged from 29 to 66 years old, with an average of 40.1±10.7, underwent endoscopic stapedotomy and 49 patients, in whom 17 were male, and 33 were female, aged from 32 to 64 yeas old, with an arerage of 38.7±9.2, underwent microscopic stapedotomy for otosclerosis. Interventions included endoscopic and microscopic stapes surgeries. Main outcome measures consisted of operating time, preoperative and postoperative hearing, intraoperative findings, and postoperative complications. SPSS 16.0 software was used to analyzed the date (t test and χ2 test) .@*Results@#Patients in the group who underwent endoscopic stapes surgery showed a mean operative time of (74.1±26.0) min. Patients in the group treated by microscopic approach had a mean operative time (66.5±15.9) min. Statistical difference was evident (t=1.279, P<0.05) . The average operative time of endoscopic surgery became shorter as the cases increased. The average duration of the last 10 cases was shorter than that of the first 10 cases in both groups. The differences were significant (t value was 3.028, 3.610, both P<0.05). No statistical difference was found in air conduction threshold improvement (t=1.074, P=0.289) , air-bone gap closure (t=-0.135, P=0.893) and bone conduction improvement (t=1.222, P=0.228) between the two groups. No difference regarding the incidence of the postoperative complications (chorda tympanum damage: 6 cases vs 2 cases, χ2=0.08,P>0.05; vertigo:18 cases vs 9 cases,χ2=0.09, P>0.05; facial paralysis: 0 case vs 0 case) between the two groups was found.@*Conclusion@#Audiological outcomes achieved by endoscopic surgery are similar to the results obtained through a microscopic approach. Endoscopic stapes surgery is safe.

Degree of tinnitus improvement with stapes surgery - a review / Grau de melhora do zumbido com estapedectomia - uma revisão

Abstract Introduction Otospongiosis is temporal bone osteodystrophy, characterized by disordered bone resorption and neoformation in genetically predisposed individuals. Clinically, otospongiosis is characterized by progressive conductive and/or mixed hearing loss and by tinnitus. Objective A review of the last two decades of publications that report the degree of tinnitus improvement with stapes surgery. Methods 125 articles published in the last 20 years mentioning the relationship between otosclerosis and tinnitus. Literature has always shown that the hearing improvement after stapes surgery was the main result sought and found. However, recent articles has reinforced the need for surgery for the tinnitus improvement. The ideal time to assess tinnitus through different scales is in the sixth month post-operative. The estimated average hearing improvement is 93% and tinnitus is 85.52%. Results Summaries of 12 articles were reviewed which fulfilled the search criteria of the survey, and 8 studies were included in the study according the selection criteria. This studies investigating the degree of tinnitus improvement with stapes surgery, using different scales as: tinnitus functional index, visual analog scale, tinnitus functional index and visual analog scale, visual analog scale and "questionnaire asking about tinnitus", Newman's method and Tinnitus Score Advocated by the Japan Audiological Society. The total of the samples of the evaluated articles was of 254 participants. Conclusion We conclude that stapes surgery is effective for the treatment of tinnitus (average improvement is 85.52%), and hearing loss (average improvement is 93%). When deciding about the surgical indication in patients with otosclerosis, the presence and level tinnitus should be considered as well as the level of hearing.

Resumo Introdução A otosclerose é uma osteodistrofia do osso temporal, caracterizada pela reabsorção e neoformação óssea desordenadas em indivíduos geneticamente predispostos. Clinicamente, a otosclerose é caracterizada por perda auditiva progressiva condutiva e/ou mista e por zumbido. Objetivo Uma revisão das últimas duas décadas de publicações que relatam o grau de melhora do zumbido com a estapedectomia. Método Foram analisados 125 artigos publicados nos últimos 20 anos que mencionavam a relação entre otosclerose e zumbido. A literatura sempre mostrou a melhoria auditiva como principal objetivo e resultado da estapedectomia. No entanto, artigos recentes reforçaram a necessidade de cirurgia para a melhoria do zumbido. O momento ideal para avaliar o zumbido através de diferentes escalas é no sexto mês pós-operatório. A melhoria auditiva média estimada é de 93% e a do zumbido, de 85,52%. Resultados Foram revisados resumos de 12 artigos que preencheram os critérios de pesquisa, foram incluídos no estudo 8 artigos de acordo com os critérios de seleção. Este estudo investiga o grau de melhora do zumbido com a estapedectomia, utilizando diferentes escalas: tinnitus functional index, escala visual analógica, tinnitus functional index e escala visual analógica, escala visual analógica e "questionário sobre o zumbido", método de Newman e o Tinnitus Score Advocated, da Sociedade Audiológica do Japão (Japan Audiological Society). O total das amostras dos artigos avaliados foi de 254 participantes. Conclusão Concluímos que a estapedectomia é bastante eficaz no tratamento do zumbido (melhoria média de 85,52%) e perda auditiva (melhoria média de 93%). Ao decidir sobre a indicação cirúrgica em pacientes com otosclerose, a presença e o nível de zumbido devem ser considerados, assim como o nível de audição.

Short-Term Audiological Results of Diode Laser in Comparison with Manual Perforation in Stapes Surgery

Abstract Introduction Diode laser is a new alternative in stapes surgery for otosclerosis. The present study is the first to compare the short-term results of the surgery performed using diode laser to those obtained through the conventional fenestration technique. Objective To use audiometry to establish a comparative analysis between the functional results obtained through surgery for otosclerosis using diode laser and the conventional technique. Method Audiometric evaluation of 12 patients submitted to stapes surgery for otosclerosis, using diode laser or conventional fenestration by needle and drills, between 2014 and 2015. Each group was composed of 6 patients. Pre and postoperative measures were compared for three months in both groups. The speech recognition threshold, the air and bone conduction threshold, as well as the gap between them at 500 Hz, 1 KHz, 2 KHz and 4 KHz were measured. Results Significant difference in bone conduction and SRT was observed when compared post- and preoperative results in the diode group. However diode and conventional technique groups presented significant differences in air conduction and air-bone gap, suggesting that both can provide functional improvement. Conclusion Laser stapedotomy is a safe technique with good results. Both laser surgery and the conventional technique have improved the hearing of patients with a discreet advantage for the diode laser. Further prospective and randomized clinical trials are required to disclose all possible benefits of the stapes surgery using diode laser.