Otosclerosis in the north of Iraq

Twenty three cases of otoscierosis which were seen in the north of Iraq between January 1983 to January 1988 were reviewed. Twelve patients accepted surgical treatment and 11 refused These latter group were given hearing aids The most common type of foot plate was found to be type 11. The early improvement of hearing after stapedectomy was gained in 83.3% of patients. Long term hearing results after surgery were difficult to be assessed as our patients did not attend for follow up regularly. Otosclerosis is not common in Iraq. The treatment of choice is still stapedectomy, because our patients do not accept hearing aids