Current use of implants in middle ear surgery

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Biomaterials Science
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• The American Otological Society (AOS) and American Neurotology Society (ANS) surveyed members on prosthesis use for ossiculoplasty and stapedectomy.
• Findings were compared to a 1989 study to identify trends in biomaterial and prosthesis selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey current practices in middle ear prosthesis usage among AOS and ANS members.
• To compare current prosthesis usage and satisfaction rates with data from 1989.
• To identify trends in biomaterial preference for ossiculoplasty and stapedectomy.

Main Methods:

• Questionnaires were distributed to all AOS and ANS members regarding biomaterial and prosthesis usage for stapes and chronic ear surgery.
• 274 out of 575 (47%) questionnaires were returned, with 248 (43%) respondents performing middle ear surgery.
• Data analysis focused on the responses from surgeons performing middle ear procedures.

Main Results:

• The use of hydroxyapatite prostheses increased significantly from 9% in 1989 to 82% in 1999.
• Usage of bone (93% to 72%) and cartilage (78% to 62%) decreased, while Plastipore use remained relatively stable (81% to 59%).
• High overall satisfaction rates (>85%) were reported for most prostheses, with Plastipore showing the lowest satisfaction (71%).

Conclusions:

• Current middle ear surgery implant use shows a distinct pattern with high user satisfaction.
• Surgeon preference for implants remained stable, but material choices shifted towards hydroxyapatite.
• A notable decrease in the use of bone, cartilage, and Plastipore was observed, paralleling the rise of hydroxyapatite.