Stapedectomy in patients with dehiscent and prolapsed facial nerve

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to apply the modified stapedectomy technique in cases with dehiscent and prolapsed facial nerve canal, and to compare the postoperative results with those with normal facial nerve canal anatomy.

Material and method: 28 patients who underwent primary stapedectomy were included. Of the patients, 17 were in the normal anatomical facial nerve group, and 11 were in the dehiscent and prolapsed facial nerve group. Facial nerve was retracted with micro elevator in dehiscent and prolapsed group. and Titanium-Teflon prosthesis was angled and used in accordance with facial nerve course at this group.

Result: No facial paresis or paralysis was observed in any patient postoperatively. In the first year, no significant difference was found in terms of air-bone gap.

Conclusion: It is safe to retract the facial nerve for a limited time in cases of stapedectomy in cases with dehiscent and prolapsed facial nerve canal. In these cases, modifying the stapedial prosthesis in accordance with the facial nerve course does not cause disadvantage in terms of hearing gain.

Keywords: Dehiscence; Facial nerve canal; Overhanging; Stapedectomy; Technique.