A new stapedotomy prosthesis: preliminary report.

ABSTRACT

Our study describes a newly designed stapedotomy prosthesis which consists of two components (1) a platinum ribbon, and (2) a Teflon shaft. The first innovation is a flattened 'tab' on the posterior aspect of the platinum ribbon. The second innovation concerns the dual diameter cylinder-like shaft. Our prosthesis was implanted into 25 individuals, who underwent stapedotomy for stapes fixation, and the results are shown and discussed. Our innovations offer a proper and safe insertion of the prosthesis into the oval window associated with excellent manipulation and handling. At the same time, maximum visualization of the surgical field is achieved, while the stepped-down design of the shaft prevents the prosthesis protruding into the vestibule.