CO2 laser stapedotomy

Operative approaches to correct stapedial otosclerosis continue to be refined. In the last decade the use of the laser in stapedotomy has become increasingly common. The decision to use visible (Argon, KPT-532) versus invisible (CO2) lasers continues to be debated. CO2 laser light has ideal optical properties in micro-otologic surgery, but because of delivery problems its use was difficult. Recent advances in laser technology have facilitated the use of the CO2 laser. Eighty-four patients in the past 3 years have undergone small fenestra laser stapedotomy. Results are available on 82. Of these, 91% had closure of the air-bone gap within 10 db. Complications and morbidity were minimal. CO2 laser stapedotomy is a safe procedure with low morbidity in the correction of hearing loss caused by stapedial otosclerosis.