Comparison of Outcomes of Hearing Reconstruction Techniques for Isolated Incus Long Process Defects

Abstract:

Background: Different techniques are available for ossicular reconstruction in isolated incus defects. Our objective was to compare hearing reconstruction techniques in Austin–Kartush Group A (incus defect, intact manubrium mallei and mobile stapes are present) ossicular defects.

Methods: Patients with isolated incus long process defect whose hearing impairment was reconstructed and followed-up for 12 months were reviewed. The hearing outcomes of bone-cement manubrio-stapedioplasty, bone-cement incudostapedopexy, and partial ossicular replacement prosthesis techniques were compared.

Results: In the study, 49 ears of patients aged between 10 and 53 years (median 30) who underwent ossiculoplasty between June 2017 and July 2018 were included. All groups had statistically significant improvement in both air-conduction thresholds (ACT) and closure of the air-bone gap (ABG). There was no deterioration in bone-conduction thresholds (BCT) in any frequency. When the success rates of the groups were compared, there was no statistical difference.

Conclusion: In patients with a defective incus, intact manubrium mallei, and mobile stapes, high success rates could be achieved with appropriate and careful surgery using all 3 hearing reconstruction methods.