ABSTRACT
Mixed hearing loss is becoming more common also in otosclerosis after stapedectomy. The sensorineural deficit may be caused by penetration of the oval window with exposure of the perilymph. Despite meticulous surgical care, the inner ear also can be traumatized readily and made more susceptible to infection by this procedure. In surgical trauma to the inner ear, high-frequency hearing loss often falls below the preoperative level, and the patient may complain of reduced discrimination though his pure-tone threshold is improved. Other symptoms suggestive of sensory damage, such as recruitment, distortion, and a lower threshold of discomfort, may be noted.
