Management Options and Their outcomes in Bilateral Advanced Otosclerosis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Otosclerosis is a hereditary disorder that causes progressive hearing loss in the adult population. Owing to its progressive nature, a multimodal treatment approach is often required. Management options were offered to patients following comprehensive audiological and radiological evaluation, incorporating the Merkus algorithm in clinical decision-making. This study aims to compare the audiological and speech-related outcomes of cochlear implantation (CI) and stapedotomy with hearing aid use in patients with bilateral advanced otosclerosis. METHODS: This cohort study included 38 patients divided into 2 groups: Group A consisted of patients who underwent CI (n = 15), and Group B comprised patients who underwent stapedotomy followed by hearing aid use (n = 23). Outcomes were compared using paired t-tests both within and between the groups. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in hearing and speech outcomes post-intervention. Speech-related outcomes were superior in Group A (cochlear implant recipients) with a statistically significant P value (