Mobilization of the Stapes: Some Clinical Remarks

Abstract

Mobilization is successful, in the writer's experience, in about 40 % of cases. An attempt at mobilization is indicated in almost all cases of otosclerosis qualified for surgical treatment. Hence it follows that about 60 % of cases, in the methods of mobilization usually applied, must wait for some time for a second operation, i.e. generally for fenestration. The writer has elaborated a procedure for mobilization which, if it is unsuccessful, may at once be followed by fenestration, on condition that the cause of failure is clearly recognized. To realize this postulate, mobilization should be performed under a microscope with magnification × 10–25. A considerable number of failures in mobilization can in this way be qualified for one-stage fenestration. Tinnitus usually yields after fenestration as well as after successful mobilization. Apparently the mechanism of pulsating tinnitus in otosclerosis is essentially the same as that of Korotkoff's sounds during examination of the blood-pressure.