Minimally Traumatic Stapes SurgeryMinimally Traumatic Stapes Surgery: A Breakthrough in Treating Otosclerosis
If you are experiencing conductive hearing loss and have been diagnosed with otosclerosis, we have good news for you! Minimally Traumatic Stapes Surgery (MTSS), developed by Dr. An-Suey Shiao, is a cutting-edge procedure designed to treat this condition. Otosclerosis is characterized by the abnormal hardening of the stapes bone in the middle ear, which can lead to significant hearing loss by impairing the stapes ability to transmit sound waves effectively to the inner ear. While hearing decline is often associated with aging, it is essential for younger individuals to be vigilant and seek professional evaluation if they notice any changes in their hearing.
Normal hearing relies on the efficient transmission of sound waves through the ear canal, facilitated by the ossicles—three tiny bones known as the malleus, incus, and stapes. The stapes, being the smallest of these bones, plays a vital role in this process (Figure 1). When it becomes hardened, surgical intervention is often the only effective solution, aside from hearing aids.
Dr. An-Suey Shiao, the Director of the Department of Otolaryngology at Cheng Hsin General Hospital in Taiwan, is a leading expert in the treatment of otosclerosis. Renowned for achieving the highest surgical success rate in Taiwan, Dr. Shiao has pioneered the minimally traumatic stapes surgery (MTSS) technique.
The surgical procedure, as illustrated in Figure 2, is performed microscopically or endoscopically. The ossified stapes is replaced with a piston made from titanium. Each step of the procedure requires meticulous attention to avoid postoperative complications such as vertigo and hearing loss.
Patients undergoing minimally traumatic stapes surgery can expect a quicker recovery compared to traditional stapes surgery. However, it is important to avoid lifting heavy objects, engaging in weight training, diving, or excessive nose-blowing during the initial postoperative period. For those concerned about air travel, there are typically no restrictions. Post-operative clinic follow-ups will be scheduled several times within the first two months.
Otosclerosis is more prevalent among individuals of European descent than among Asians. Its occurrence is often linked to genetic factors, with hormonal changes potentially playing a role. Interestingly, 70% to 80% of patients experience otosclerosis in only one ear.
Before proceeding with surgery, we conduct audiometry and assistive hearing tests. Computed tomography (CT) scans of the inner ear may also be performed to identify any additional ear problems. Generally, if the patient is over 65 years of age, surgery is not advised.
Currently, the average global success rate for stapes surgery ranges from 60% to 90%. Dr. An-Suey Shiao has achieved an impressive success rate of around 80-90% with this minimally invasive stapes surgery ( MTSS) technique. This advancement has significantly decreased post operative complications such as persistent vertigo and hearing deterioration, and resulted in better hearing outcomes.
Dr. Shiao emphasizes that relying solely on single-ear hearing can hinder spatial awareness, adversely affecting daily life. With the evolution of this minimally invasive stapes surgery technique, patients now have access to a safe and effective solution for otosclerosis, providing the only permanent remedy for this condition.
For those considering international medical services, Cheng Hsin General Hospital stands out as a premier destination for advanced otosclerosis treatments under the expert care of Dr. An-Suey Shiao.
An-Suey Shiao, Head of Department
Position
Director, Department of Otolaryngology, Cheng Hsin General Hospital
Education:
- Department of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center
- Research Fellow at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Otolaryngology.
- Research Fellow at the pittsburgh university , Department of Otolaryngology.
- Research Fellow at Cleveland Clinic, Department of Otolaryngology.
- Research Fellow at the House Ear Institute.
- Internship at the University of Melbourne, Department of Otolaryngology.
Experience:
- Clinical Professor at the National Defense Medical Center
- Associate Professor at National Yang-Ming University
- President of the Taiwan Society of Otorhinolaryngology from 2007 to 2010
- Board Member of the World Chinese Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Society
- Board Member of the Asia-Pacific Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Society
- Reviewer for the Central Health Insurance Administration of the Ministry of Health and Welfare
- RRC Committee Member of the Foundation for Hospital Accreditation and Healthcare Quality Promotion
Medical Specializations:
- Otosclerosis ( stapes surgery ). ( Taiwan’s pioneer)
- Chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma surgery. ( Received SNQ National Biotechnology Medical Quality Bronze Medal)
- Diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus and vertigo.
- Evaluation of elderly and pediatric patients with hearing loss and balance disorders.
- Pediatric ear, nose, and throat diseases (acute otitis media, middle ear infections)
- Cochlear implants.
Mon~ Fri 8am~5pm.
