Otosclerosis

Otosclerosis is a disease of the ear marked by abnormal growth of bone that interferes with the movement of the bones in the middle ear. As the bone growth advances, progressive hearing loss may occur.

Otosclerosis is one of the most common causes of acquired hearing loss, especially among Caucasian females. It is twice as likely to occur in women compared to men. Otosclerosis is believed to be exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations that accelerate the disease process. Pregnant women with this condition may experience a rapid progression of hearing loss.

The most common symptom of otosclerosis is gradual hearing loss over months or years, affecting one or both ears. Generally, the first signs can appear between the ages 15 and 45. Difficulty understanding speech during a conversation can be the first sign of depleted hearing.

Treatment options include wearing a hearing aid or surgical repair, including stapedectomy, an elective, outpatient procedure, with about a week of recovery. A stapedotomy is a 30-minute surgery that has excellent outcomes. Dr. Benson may order a CT scan prior to surgery to rule out other conditions that can present similarly to otosclerosis.