Otosclerosis is one of the commonest causes of deafness.
How we hear? (Physiology of hearing):
Sound wave falls on Ear drum= drum vibrates=Vibrations transmitted to 3 small ossicles of middle ear=Sound reaches to inner ear and nerve of hearing=Brain percepts sound.
Otosclerosis (abnormal growth of bone):
Causes stapes fixation = sound wave does not reach to inner ear=hearing impaired. Otosclerosis may involve balance system causing unsteadiness/vertigo.
Treatment:
No medical treatment or ear drops will help. Sodium fluoride use is controversial.
Surgery- Stapedectomy:
Stapes is removed and is replaced by a Teflon piston under operating microscope with special micro instruments. Surgery is done through ear canal under local anesthesia.
Hearing aids:
Hearing aids are prescribed to a patient who is not willing for surgery or is not fit for surgery.
