Management of stapes footplate fistula in inner ear malformations.

BACKGROUND

Certain inner ear malformations have stapes footplate fistula which may cause meningitis during otitis media. This may result in fatality. It is the responsibility of the otolaryngologist to diagnose and treat the condition to prevent further attacks of meningitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Surgical findings of the 17 patients who have inner ear malformations with oval window fistula were retrospectively analyzed. Inner ear malformations were classified according to Sennaroglu classification. Different stages of stapes footplate fistula are classified.

FINDINGS

Seventeen patients had spontaneous stapes footplate fistula at the oval window. No patient had spontaneous leakage at the round window site. Proper sealing of the leakage area with fascia in a dumbbell fashion is mandatory. Keeping the stapes in place and lumbar drainage are the two most important factors in the successful management of fistula. Particularly important is the simultaneous fistula repair and cochlear implantation where combined postauricular-transcanal approach provides the best method. Vaccination is important but not sufficient to prevent meningitis in inner ear malformations unless repair of the fistula is performed.

CONCLUSION

If the patient has a history of meningitis in the presence of inner ear malformation, particular attention should be given to oval window area to look for an opacity, cyst or a leaking lesion at the stapes footplate. Immediate surgical exploration and repair of the leak is mandatory to prevent further attacks of meningitis. Surgeon should not leave the operation without fully controlling the leak.