Endoscopic Versus Microscopic Stapedotomy: Our Experience.

With technological improvements leading to enhanced image resolution, as well as recognized acceptance of endoscopes within the field of rhinology, there has been greater implementation of endoscopes in otologic and neurotologic procedures. Surgeons now use endoscopes for a wide range of otological procedure, one such procedure is endoscopic stapedotomy for otosclerosis. This study is done to compare merits and demerits of endoscopic stapedotomy with microscopic stapedotomy. This is a prospective observational study conducted in SMBT Medical College and Hospital, Nashik from January 2018 to January 2020. 40 patients who presented to ENT OPD with clinical features suggestive of otosclerosis and who fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. Detailed history, complete ENT examination and audiological investigations were done. Preanesthetic evaluation was done and patients were randomly allotted into two groups. Group A: consisted of twenty patients who underwent microscopic stapedotomy under local anesthesia Group B: consisted of twenty patients who underwent endoscopic stapedotomy under local anesthesia. Data was collected in pre-structured proforma and analyzed. There was no statistically significant difference between microscopic and endoscopic procedure in terms of duration of the surgery, hearing improvements or complications. However, surgeons noted that ease of visualization of middle ear structures and the better image quality favors endoscopic procedure over microscopic procedure. There is no increased risk of complications with endoscopic stapedotomy and hearing improvement is same as that of microscopic stapedotomy however the ease of visualization of middle ear structures and the better image quality favors endoscopic procedure over microscopic procedure. Hence, we conclude that endoscopic stapedotomy is a safe alternative to microscopic stapedotomy.