Transcanal Endoscopic Stapedotomy

Stapedotomy can be technically difficult and challenging due to anatomic variations in size, configuration, shape, or irregularity of the external ear canal. The stapes and oval window niche (OWN) can be obscured by the scutum. Transcanal endoscopic approach can improve the visualization of the middle ear structures and obviate the need to manipulate the chorda tympani nerve in order to obtain adequate access to the stapes and OWN. The transcanal endoscopic stapedotomy (TES) can be utilized in patients with unfavorable external or middle ear anatomy, in candidates for revision or bilateral stapedotomy, in patients with already impaired taste sensation, with food-, smell-, or taste-related occupations, and in those for whom the taste of food contributes appreciably to their quality of life.