STAPEDECTOMY IN PROFOUND COCHLEAR LOSS

Stapedectomy can be used in certain patients with profound sensorineur al hearing loss and stapes fixation to improve hearing to a level at w hich a hearing aid may be effective. This study reviews the outcomes o f 11 patients with profound cochlear loss secondary to otosclerosis wh o underwent stapes surgery performed by the senior author (M.E.G.) ove r a 25-year period. Postoperative hearing aid usage was effective in 9 of 11 patients. Preoperatively, these patients derived no benefits fr om hearing aids. Stapedectomy may be of immense value in patients with the proper history and profound cochlear loss.