I am an assoc. prof. in a local community college. I have a profound hearing problem, however, with the use of two hearing aids it has helped. My problem has been diagnosed as otosclerosis, and somewhat genetic. I am interested in locating a otolaryngologist that specializes in otosclerosis as I have recently lost additional hearing. This is very important to me to do whatever is possible to preserve what hearing I have or seek help regarding possible surgery.
Answer -------------------
Otosclerosis is a condition characterized by a focal disorder in bone growth in the cochlea or bone of the inner ear. Typically the bone surrounding the innermost ossicle of the middle ear known as the stapes is initially affected resulting in fixation of the stapes bone. This therefore impairs the normal transfer and magnification of sound energy provided by the ear drum and middle ear bones en route to the inner ear. The result is hearing loss. Initially the hearing loss is primarily conductive and is associated with normal inner ear and nerve function. With aggressive cases or advancing age however, the condition commonly will extend to involve the inner ear itself thereby causing sensorineural hearing loss.
The characterization of the hearing loss manifestations of otosclerosis is important. When the condition is at the stage of primarily conductive hearing loss, surgical intervention can be quite helpful and in many cases can restore hearing to near normal levels. This type of surgery is known as a stapedectomy and involves removal of a portion of the stapes bone and replacement with an artificial prosthesis. This is a procedure in which the probability of success is highly correlated with the surgeon's familiarity with the procedure, or in other words how frequently he/she performs the procedure. In major metropolitan areas, this level of surgical expertise may be found primarily in subspecialists known as otologists. However, many general otolaryngologists have excellent experience in this procedure. It is more important to inquire as to the frequency the procedure is performed by the surgeon and what his/her relative success has been.
In rapidly advancing cases, particularly in young age, fluoride therapy may be recommended. When neurosensory impairment is signficant, hearing aids may eventually be required. Hearing aids are also an alternative to surgical intervention for the conductive hearing loss.
Potential surgical risks include problems with balance (although usually this is very short term) and a small risk of injury to the inner ear causing total hearing loss.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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