Stapedectomy

What are the Risks and Complications of Stapedectomy?

Some of the complications of stapedectomy include the following:

• Anesthesia Complications: Risk of complications associated with anesthesia can arise, which should be discussed with the anesthetist
• Postoperative Infections: These are common and are usually treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Bleeding: This can occur during or after surgery. Bleeding is treated by finding the source and cauterizing it
• Eardrum Damage: This can result in perforation of the eardrum which may require another surgery

• Deafness: Persistent deafness after surgery may be experienced, which may occur if the implant slips out of place, often requiring corrective surgery
• Facial Weakness: This may be experienced for a few days after the surgery
• Tinnitus: This is a persistent ringing or buzzing sensation in the ears. It usually improves after surgery, but may worsen in rare cases
• Dizziness: A dizzy feeling or unsteadiness in gait may be experienced for a few days after the surgery
• Dry Mouth: Dryness of the mouth and taste disturbances may occur for a few weeks after the surgery

• Fortunately, most of the complications are rare and can be readily managed.