Laser-assisted stapedotomy with a Nitinol heat-crimping prosthesis: Outcomes compared with a platinum fluoroplastic prosthesis

Abstract

Objective: To assess the hearing outcomes achieved with a Nitinol heat-crimping prosthesis when used with a laser-assisted stapedotomy for otosclerosis. Study Design: Prospective assessment of 50 stapedotomies performed in 48 patients. Data collected included audiological results and duration of hospital admission. Outcomes were compared with a previously reported series of 66 stapedotomies performed in 59 patients. Setting: Tertiary referral center and private practice. Results: In the Nitinol group, hearing was improved in all cases (100%). The air-bone gap (ABG) was closed to within 10 dB in 48 (96%). This group's results are significantly better (P ≤ 0.01) than those of the platinum fluo..