Published with the inputs from Dr Anoop Chandran, Senior Consultant, Baby Memorial Hospitals - Kozhikode
Stapedotomy is a microsurgical procedure performed to improve hearing in individuals with otosclerosis — a condition that causes abnormal bone formation around the stapes bone (one of the three small bones in the middle ear). This bone becomes fixed and unable to transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear, leading to progressive hearing loss.
During the procedure, part of the stapes bone is carefully opened and replaced with a tiny prosthesis, which restores the normal transmission of sound waves and significantly improves hearing.
What is stapedotomy?
Stapedotomy is a precision ear surgery that involves creating a small hole in the fixed stapes footplate and inserting a microscopic prosthesis. This allows sound to pass efficiently to the inner ear (cochlea), improving hearing ability while preserving delicate ear structures.
When is stapedotomy recommended?
Your ENT specialist may recommend a stapedotomy if you have:
Otosclerosis causing conductive hearing loss
Progressive hearing difficulty not improved with hearing aids
Bilateral (both ears) or severe conductive hearing loss
No evidence of inner ear disease or infection
Hearing tests and imaging are performed before surgery to confirm diagnosis.
How is stapedotomy performed?
The procedure is done under local or general anesthesia. General anesthesia is preferred
A microscope or endoscope is used to visualize the middle ear.
The surgeon removes part of the fixed stapes bone and creates a small opening in its base (footplate).
A piston-like prosthesis is inserted to connect the incus (another tiny bone) to the inner ear.
The prosthesis allows normal sound conduction.
The surgery typically takes 45–60 minutes and requires no external incision.
Is stapedotomy safe?
Yes. Stapedotomy is a safe and effective surgery when performed by an experienced ENT or otologic surgeon. Possible but rare complications include:
Temporary dizziness or imbalance
Taste changes
Mild ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Very rarely, partial hearing loss
These risks are minimized through modern microsurgical techniques and intraoperative monitoring.
What is recovery like after stapedotomy?
Hospital stay: Usually day-care or overnight observation
Rest: Light activity for 3–5 days
Avoid: Sneezing, blowing nose, heavy lifting, or air travel for 2–3 weeks
Hearing improvement: Usually noticeable within a few weeks
Follow-up: Regular check-ups and hearing tests to monitor progress
Most patients resume work and normal activities within a week.
What results can I expect from stapedotomy?
Significant improvement in hearing — often 20–30 decibels gain
Reduction in tinnitus (ringing sound)
Improved speech clarity and sound perception
Long-lasting results when postoperative instructions are followed
What is the difference between stapedotomy and stapedectomy?
Stapedectomy: Entire stapes bone removed and replaced
Stapedotomy: Small hole created in stapes; prosthesis inserted
If you are experiencing hearing loss due to otosclerosis or middle ear conditions, the ENT & Otology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced stapedotomy surgery using microscopic and endoscopic techniques to restore natural hearing safely and effectively.
👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our expert ENT surgeons and audiology specialists.
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