OBJECTIVETo assess the effect of stapes surgery on advanced otosclerosis (AO).

METHODSIn 300 cases randomly collected of otosclerosis in 1970 to 1999, 68 cases (77ears) were selected for retrospective analysis, which met the criteria of advanced otosclerosis (mixed deafness, with bone-conduction levels exceeding 40 dB and air-conduction levels exceeding 70 dB in 500 - 2000 Hz).

RESULTSThe air-conduction of sixty-eight cases (77 ears) were from 77.32 dB to 53.7 dB (500-2000 Hz) after operation, mean decreased 23.62 dB. Of 71 ears (92.21%) obtained air-conduction improved over 10 dB, of 46 ears (59.74%) gained A-B Gap closure in 10 dB. Air-conduction were from 79.01 dB to 58.23 dB (500 - 4000 Hz) after operation and mean decreased 20.78 dB. Of 68 ears (88.31%) obtained air-conduction improved over 10 dB, of 32 ears (41.56%) gained A-B gap closure in 10 dB. After followed up 5-25 years, of 67 ears were retained stabilization, of 28 ears obtained more improve than postoperation. But 4 ears had drop (all was stapes-elevation and re-improvement after them was reviewed).

CONCLUSIONStapes surgery is effective operation to cured otosclerosis, advanced otosclerosis or far-advanced otosclerosis had greater help to improved hearing.