Question: I am 51 years old with hereditary otosclerosis, diagnosed right after the birth of my 1st son when I was 36. In 2009, scared by the surgery (even though successful for my mom who had the procedure done by Dr Freich, you might know since you seem to give lectures in France) I opted for a hearing aid. It has now reached it’s full capacity and I need to buy a new one. But working as a School Counselor (for the French American Pre-School), listening to kids with multicultural backgrounds is a BIG challenge! And I think I still compensate with lip reading. Is it still possible to get a stapedotomy? Do you speak some French so I could consult you and understand better the pros and cons of such a procedure?
Thank you so much for your opinion/advice.
Answer:
Hi Floriane,
I would highly recommend a consultation with an experienced stapedotomy surgeon to discuss the pros and cons. In experienced hands, the surgery is highly successful with a recognized complication rate less than 1%. In France, the Clinque Causse near Beziers is a world-class facility with some of the most experienced surgeons in the world.
Best of luck.
Neil Sperling, MD
New York Otolaryngology Group
36A East 36th Street
New York, New York
Associate Professor, Dept of Otolaryngology
SUNY Downstate
Brooklyn, New York
Frequently Asked Questions
Otosclerosis is a hereditary condition that affects the bones of the middle ear, leading to progressive hearing loss. It is often diagnosed when hearing deterioration becomes noticeable, as in the case described, and can significantly impact the ability to hear, especially in challenging environments.
Stapedotomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating a small opening in the stapes bone of the middle ear to improve sound conduction. It is highly successful in treating hearing loss caused by otosclerosis, with complication rates under 1% when performed by experienced surgeons.
Yes, stapedotomy remains a viable treatment option even for individuals who have previously used hearing aids. It can offer improved hearing and reduce dependence on hearing aids, especially if the hearing aid has reached its limitations.
Patients should consult with an experienced stapedotomy surgeon to thoroughly understand the pros, cons, and risks of the procedure. Factors such as surgeon experience, the success rate, potential complications, and personal lifestyle needs should be discussed to make an informed decision.
Highly experienced stapedotomy surgeons can be found at specialized centers such as the Clinique Causse near Beziers in France, known for world-class expertise in this surgery. Additionally, some otolaryngology groups in major cities have surgeons with significant experience in stapedotomy.
Stapedotomy surgery is very successful with a recognized complication rate of less than 1% when performed by experienced surgeons. Most patients experience significant hearing improvement after the procedure.
Yes, individuals who rely on lip reading due to hearing loss may benefit from stapedotomy surgery as it aims to restore hearing function. This can reduce dependence on lip reading and improve ability to understand speech, especially in challenging listening environments.
