Revision surgery for otosclerosis.

The outcome of surgery was analyzed in 76 otosclerosis patients (82 operations) undergoing revisions during the period 1986-89. The ears were divided into 3 groups based on preoperative A-B gaps 1) larger than 25 dB, 2) between 10 to 25 dB, and 3) less than 10 dB. A final hearing gain of more than 11 dB was recorded in 76%, 40% and 10% of the ears in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. In the groups with conductive component none of the ears deteriorated. In the sensorineural group 2 patients suffered further loss of 10 and 29 dB, respectively, and one ear became deaf. At revision the most common causes of conductive impairment were found to be dislocation of the prosthesis, remnants of footplate or new bone growth. Fistula was suspected in 10 ears and verified in 5. Several reconstruction methods must be mastered.