Stapedotomy
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description:
Stapedotomy is a specialized surgical procedure performed to restore hearing in patients affected by otosclerosis, a condition where abnormal bone growth in the middle ear prevents sound from being properly conducted to the inner ear. The stapes bone, one of the three small bones in the middle ear responsible for transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear, becomes fixed in place due to this bone growth. This fixation impairs sound transmission, leading to conductive hearing loss.
The stapedotomy procedure involves creating a small hole, or fenestra, in the fixed stapes bone and inserting a prosthetic device to restore movement. The prosthesis allows sound vibrations to bypass the abnormal stapes bone and reach the inner ear, where they are converted into nerve impulses that the brain can interpret as sound. The surgery is delicate and is often performed using an operating microscope to ensure precision.
Stapedotomy is generally recommended for patients whose hearing loss has become significant enough to interfere with their daily lives. It is considered a highly effective procedure, often restoring a large portion of hearing lost due to otosclerosis. The decision to undergo a stapedotomy is typically based on audiometric testing and a thorough evaluation of the patient’s overall ear health.
Procedure Duration:
The stapedotomy procedure typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete and is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preferences and medical needs. Prior to the surgery, the ear is thoroughly examined, and the patient is prepared for the operation.
During the first phase of the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the ear canal to gain access to the middle ear. The stapes bone is then examined, and a small opening is created in the footplate of the stapes using a laser or microdrill. The surgeon carefully inserts the prosthetic device, which mimics the function of the natural stapes bone, allowing sound to pass through to the inner ear.
Following the placement of the prosthesis, the surgeon ensures that it is properly positioned and functioning as intended. The ear canal is then closed, and the patient is monitored during a brief recovery period. In most cases, patients are able to return home the same day, though some may require an overnight hospital stay for observation, particularly if general anesthesia was used.
Recovery from a stapedotomy generally takes about 1-2 weeks. During this time, patients are advised to avoid activities that could disrupt the healing process, such as heavy lifting, flying, or exposure to loud noises. Full hearing improvement can often be noticed within a few weeks to months as the ear heals and adjusts to the prosthetic device.
Benefits:
- Restores Hearing:
Stapedotomy can restore a significant portion of hearing in patients with otosclerosis, allowing them to hear clearly again.
- Long-Term Solution:
Once performed, stapedotomy typically provides long-lasting results with minimal need for further intervention.
- Improved Quality of Life:
Patients often experience an enhanced quality of life after the procedure, as they can engage in conversations and social activities more easily.
- Minimally Invasive:
The procedure is relatively non-invasive, with a small incision and a short recovery time.
- High Success Rate:
Stapedotomy is known for its high success rate, with many patients reporting substantial hearing improvement after surgery.
Potential Destinations:
- Germany:
Known for its advanced medical facilities and skilled surgeons, Germany is a popular destination for patients seeking stapedotomy. Many hospitals in Germany specialize in otologic surgeries and offer state-of-the-art technology for middle ear procedures.
- Turkey:
Turkey has become a hub for medical tourism, offering high-quality care at competitive prices. The country’s experienced ENT specialists and modern healthcare infrastructure make it a top choice for patients looking to undergo stapedotomy.
- India:
India’s medical tourism sector has grown rapidly, and the country is home to numerous hospitals with internationally trained ENT surgeons. India offers affordable healthcare solutions without compromising on quality, making it an attractive option for patients seeking stapedotomy.
- Thailand:
Thailand is renowned for its healthcare services and expertise in surgical procedures, including stapedotomy. Many hospitals in Thailand offer comprehensive packages that include surgery, recovery care, and even accommodation, making it a convenient destination for medical tourists.
- South Korea:
South Korea is recognized for its cutting-edge medical technology and highly skilled ENT specialists. The country is a leader in surgical innovations and offers high success rates for procedures such as stapedotomy, attracting patients from around the world.
Risks & Considerations:
- Hearing Loss:
While rare, there is a risk that the procedure could result in further hearing loss, particularly if complications arise during surgery.
- Tinnitus:
Some patients may experience increased tinnitus (ringing in the ears) following the procedure, although this is often temporary.
- Dizziness or Vertigo:
Dizziness or vertigo can occur after surgery as the inner ear adjusts to the new prosthesis. This typically resolves within a few days to weeks but can be uncomfortable.
- Prosthesis Displacement:
In some cases, the prosthetic device may become displaced or malfunction, requiring revision surgery.
- Infection:
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. Patients should follow post-operative care instructions carefully to minimize this risk.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital:
Selecting the right doctor and hospital for a stapedotomy is crucial for achieving the best outcome. Patients should seek a surgeon who specializes in otologic surgeries and has extensive experience performing stapedotomies. Checking the surgeon's credentials, years of experience, and patient reviews can help ensure that the doctor is highly qualified. Patients should also inquire about the success rate of the surgeon's previous stapedotomy cases.
When choosing a hospital, it is important to select a facility that offers modern ENT surgical equipment and a dedicated team of specialists. The hospital should also have a good reputation for patient care and post-operative support. Medical tourists should consider the availability of international patient services, which can help with travel arrangements, accommodation, and aftercare.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
Orthopedics Stem Cell
Knee
Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.
Shoulder
Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.
Ankle
If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.
Back Pain
Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.
Anti-Aging Stem Cell
Hair Loss
Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.
Facial Anti-Aging
Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.
Fertility Stem Cell
Endometrial PRP
The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.
Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)
The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.
Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
