IF my initial result was good and the problem recurred, can I be re-operated?

Yes, provided that the loss of hearing is conductive.
An audiogram will reveal the nature of the hearing loss.
Generally, conductive loss is treatable, whereas sensori-Neural loss cannot be restored.

Re-operation can be performed, and in most cases an excellent result can be obtained. However, the risk in revision operation is slightly higher. This differs from a case-to-case basis, and the individual risk should be discussed with the treating surgeon.

Sensori-neural loss following surgery is mostly due to a PERILYMPH FISTULA.

Q: What is a perilymph fistula?

It is the leakage of perilymphatic fluids (fluids of the inner ear) due to non- closure of the opening made in the stapes footplate.

Causes of Perilymph Fistula

• Long piston
• Large hole
• Pulled in by adhesions from lenticular process to raw promontory
• Pushed in by Acoustic trauma / Barotrauma

N. B. : A Gusher will not cause a fistula if the operation has been performed according to the principles outlined above.

A fistula by itself does not cause deafness. If you do a direct piston operation, do not seal & reflect the drum back, an Intra operative audiogram will show good hearing though there is a fistula till an endosteal membrane forms.

next>