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[Round window membrane pathology in sudden deafness (author's transl)]
HNO
|July 1, 1976
Summary
Sudden deafness may involve round window abnormalities, including perilymphatic fistulas. Surgical intervention for these conditions can improve hearing and tinnitus in some patients.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Audiology
Context:
- Sudden deafness is a complex condition often requiring multidisciplinary investigation.
- Previous treatments like Eupaverin and Rheomacrodex were ineffective in these 15 patients.
- Middle ear exploration is a diagnostic tool for refractory sudden deafness.
Purpose:
- To investigate middle ear abnormalities in patients with sudden deafness unresponsive to conventional treatment.
- To identify the role of the round window membrane in sudden deafness.
- To evaluate surgical outcomes for round window pathologies.
Summary:
- Exploration of the middle ear was conducted on 15 patients with sudden deafness.
- Three patients exhibited round window membrane abnormalities: two with perilymphatic fistulas and one with abnormal bulging.
- These three patients reported exertion or stress preceding symptom onset.
- Surgical closure of fistulas improved hearing; decompression improved tinnitus but not deafness.
Impact:
- Highlights potential surgical targets for sudden deafness.
- Suggests a link between physical exertion/stress and round window pathology.
- Informs clinical management of sudden deafness with suspected inner ear involvement.