Endoscopic Stapedotomy: Overcoming Limitations of Operating Microscope

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Otology

Background:

• Otosclerosis is a common cause of conductive hearing loss.
• Conventional stapedotomy using an operating microscope can present technical challenges.
• Endoscopic techniques offer potential advantages in otologic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the technical feasibility and outcomes of endoscopic stapedotomy versus conventional microscopic stapedotomy.
• To evaluate the impact of endoscopic approach on surgical challenges and patient recovery.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study involving 64 patients diagnosed with otosclerosis.
• Patients were assigned to either conventional microscopic stapedotomy or endoscopic stapedotomy.
• Surgical parameters and post-operative outcomes were assessed for both groups.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic stapedotomy provided superior access to the footplate with less bone removal and chorda tympani repositioning.
• Significantly reduced operating time, post-operative pain, and taste disturbances were observed in the endoscopic group.
• No significant differences were found in post-operative hearing outcomes or vertigo incidence between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic stapedotomy presents clear advantages in surgical technicality and workspace accessibility.
• The endoscopic approach facilitates a faster patient recovery compared to conventional microscopic stapedotomy.
• Endoscopic stapedotomy is a viable and beneficial alternative for otosclerosis treatment.