Hearing results for ossicular reconstruction using a cartilage-connecting hydroxyapatite prosthesis with a spearhead

Objective: Assessment of the efficacy of ossicular reconstructiori using a cartilage-connecting hydroxyapatite prosthesis designed with a spearhead to reduce extrusion and dislocation of the implant. Patients: All patients undergoing ossicular reconstruction after chronic ear surgery, connecting the cartilage to the prosthesis, with a minimum of I year of postoperative follow-up. Main Outcome Measures: Postoperative change in pure-tone averages. Air-bone gap closures, and implant extrusion rates. Results: Overall mean pure-tone averages improved by 12.2 dB (ranged between -40 and 60 dB). In total, 68.4% of the patients achieved an air-bone gap less than 20 dB. Gains in the mean air conduction thresholds were 9.5 dB in cases of partial ossicular reconstruction and 14.9 dB in cases with total ossicular reconstruction (p < 0.05). The overall extrusion rate was 4.21%. Conclusion: The cartilage-connecting hydroxyapatite prosthesis with a spearhead was found, to restore hearing to a satisfactory level. The extrusion rate was relatively low. The cartilage-connecting hydroxyapatite prosthesis with a spearhead is an effective ossicular implant and offers an attractive alternative for ossicular reconstruction, particularly for total ossicular reconstructions.