[Effects of small fenestra stapedotomy in comparison with total stapedectomy].

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of small fenestra stapedotomy and total stapedectomy in patients with otosclerosis.

METHODS

Twenty-seven patients (30 ears) undergoing small fenestra stapedotomy and 36 patients (43 ears) receiving total stapedectomy were compared for hearing results and complication rates.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were seen in postoperative speech pure tone average in closing air-bone gap between the two groups. The ears treated by small fenestra stapedotomy showed statistically better air-bone gap closure at high frequencies with lower rates of sensorineural hearing loss at high frequencies and milder dizziness.

CONCLUSION

In spite of the successful hearing outcomes in both groups, small fenestra stapedotomy can achieve better results at high frequencies and reduce the incidence of complications.