title: Can a Persistent Stapedial Artery be Safely and Effectively Removed? A Case Report with Therapeutic Implications.
abstract: In the past, a persistent stapedial artery was frequently cited as a reason to discontinue stapes surgery, however, several authors have had success operating on the oval window despite the presence of a persistent artery. We present a case of a patient with conductive hearing loss and tinnitus successfully treated with removal of a persistent stapedial artery that was filling the obturator foramen. This experience, in conjunction with a review of the literature and a discussion with several neurotologic colleagues, leads us to suggest that a stapedial artery can be safely removed allowing unhindered access to the oval window.
authors.affiliation: Henry Ford Hospital, Dpt. of Oto-HNS, Division of Otology/Neurotology, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Murphy
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Seidman
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Baugh