Stapedectomy

[Issi]

Has anybody had a stapedectomy in both ears and did it affect their balance?
Thanks

[Sqad]

Issi....this is a huge question and at the moment I haven't the time to answer.........but will answer after breakfast.

[Sqad]

Right.....breakfast over.........;-)

No, I have not had a stapedectomy, but do feel qualified to answer your post as i have some degree of knowledge.

Stapedectomy is done for otosclerosis, but you know that already so I will not dwell on that matter.

Bilateral stapedectomy is still a mildly controversial topic in the surgical world, but it is often performed by many surgeons.

Dizziness or "unsteadiness" is quite common in the post operative period, usually up to six weeks after operation. If it continues longer without abating and with no improvement in hearing then one would suspect a leak of perilymph around the prosthesis.

You haven't said when you last stapedectomy was performed or indeed if you had problems with your first operation.

Does this help with your problem?

[Issi]

Thank you Sqad this is very helpful. I had my right ear done in 1993. My left ear is completely gone and I have lost some in my stap ear, so I am seriously considering having my left ear done, but I.m not sure if the surgeons are happy to do this because of dizziness, increased tinitus,etc. I didn't, have any problems when they did the right ear. Thanks

[Sqad]

Issi....difficult decision for you and the surgeons.

Although your stapes ear is deteriorating somewhat, it is still your better ear and is indeed useful......................useful enough for you to use a H.A if necessary.

The bad left ear...is that due to otosclerosis also? and if it is a stapedectomy MAY be worth while BUT, what is the cause of your tinnitus and unsteadiness. Now if it is coming from your left ear, then a further stapedectomy would not be advisable.

Difficult..........good luck.

[Issi]

Seeing ENT next month.
Many thanks.

[Sqad]

No problem....will be interested in his opinion (might be a woman Consultant ;-)

[divlong]

hi, i just wanted to shared my experience , i had my right ear done in 2000
and everything was fine just a little wobbly for 24 hours.
had my left ear done on 28th jan this year. i have been dizzy and had difficulty balancing.when i saw my surgeon for follow up he gave me lots of good advice and help, i now only need my walking stick at the end of the day as lots of activity now makes me a little dizzy and i wobbly to the left.
the tinnitus has decreased significantly,but i did have it before the op as well, and is not a problem. I would say do it as it has changed my life being able to hear not just the person sitting next to me but the person on the other side of the room. you must make the decision for what is best for you and i wish you good luck in whatever you decide.
mrs divlong