ABSTRACT
In recent years, the safety and efficacy of revision stapedectomy has come under scrutiny. Experienced surgeons report that the results of such surgery are often worse than the results after primary surgery and that the risks of sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo are increased. With the addition of laser technology to revision stapes surgery, the procedure to open the neomembrane over the oval window and gain access to the inner ear can now be performed safely. This allows positive identification of the oval window and assures placement of the prosthesis through the fenestra rather than on an intermediate segment of scar or bone in the region of the footplate. Our studies have shown the laser to be an important tool that enhances the safety and efficacy of revision stapedectomy.
