Stapedotomy, a surgical procedure aimed at improving hearing in individuals suffering from otosclerosis, has been a cornerstone in otologic surgery for decades. The procedure involves the creation of a small hole in the stapes bone (one of the tiny bones in the middle ear) to allow sound vibrations to pass more effectively to the inner ear. Traditionally, this procedure has been performed using conventional surgical tools, but advances in laser technology have led to the development of laser-assisted stapedotomy. This approach offers greater precision and reduced trauma compared to conventional methods, but it also introduces new considerations, especially in terms of how laser energy affects the delicate structures of the ear and the overall balance system. In this article, we explore the mechanics of laser-assisted stapedotomy, comparing it with the classic and reverse stapedotomy techniques, and examine how fluid mechanics principles play a role in understanding the effects of the procedure on hearing and balance. Otosclerosis is a condition in which abnormal bone growth occurs in the middle ear, specifically around the stapes, impairing its ability to vibrate in response to sound waves.
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Fluid Mechanics: Open Access received 291 citations as per Google Scholar report
