Ossicular Chain Problems

Ossicular chain discontinuity happens when the three ossicles get separated so there is no connection from the eardrum to the stapes. The most important symptom is hearing loss. The causes could be hereditary, infection or trauma. An audiogram is usually requested to prove this and sometimes a CT scan is requested to see if the ossicular chain can be visualised. If an ossicular chain discontinuity is expected surgery is the most definite means to confirm this. This is done under general anesthesia using a microscope or key hole surgery / endoscopic ear surgery. Prosthesis/ bone cement or cartilage is used to rebuild the connection from the eardrum to the stapes.