title: Stapedectomy techniques in residency training.
abstract: The KTP-532 laser has decreased the technical difficulty involved in teaching and performing a stapedectomy in our residency program. Use of this laser has resulted in improved hearing and a decreased number of major and minor complications compared to an equal number of large fenestra stapedectomies performed with hand-held instruments. The major disadvantages of the KTP-532 laser are its cost and limited availability, and the inconvenience of a micromanipulator. The laser should not be relied upon entirely in performing a stapedotomy on a thick footplate. The University of Texas Medical Branch experience in training residents in both large and small fenestra stapedectomy is reported.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
authors.forename: C L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Strunk
authors.forename: F B
authors.initials: FB
authors.lastname: Quinn
authors.forename: B J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Bailey
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001299:Audiometry; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013201:Stapes Surgery / Q000379:methods*