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The Titanium Angular Clip Prosthesis for Ossicular Chain Reconstruction: Long-Term Results.
Konrad Johannes Stuermer1, Karl-Bernd Hüttenbrink, Jan Christoffer Luers
1University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Cologne Germany.
Summary
The titanium angular clip prosthesis offers a safe and effective solution for incus long process defects. It provides significant, lasting improvements in air-bone gap for hearing restoration.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Auditory Implants
Background:
- Isolated defects of the incus long process can impair ossicular chain function.
- Reconstruction of the ossicular chain is crucial for effective sound transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of the titanium angular clip prosthesis.
- To assess audiological outcomes 10 years after prosthesis implantation.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective clinical study was conducted.
- Sixty-three patients with isolated incus long process defects received the prosthesis.
- Mean air-bone gap was measured at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 kHz.
Main Results:
- Prosthesis placement was straightforward with no complications.
- Short-term follow-up showed a 10 dB HL improvement in air-bone gap (24 to 14 dB HL).
- Long-term follow-up (4 years) demonstrated a sustained 8 dB HL improvement (26 to 18 dB HL).
Conclusions:
- The titanium angular clip prosthesis is a safe and reliable method for bridging incus long process defects.
- It leads to significant and durable air-bone gap improvements.
- Effective sound transmission is achieved in patients with Type A and Type B/C tympanograms.
