title: A method to intraoperatively assess stapes prostheses for magnetic attraction.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To present a technique used to assess metallic otologic prostheses for magnetic susceptibility during surgery.
  
  
  METHODS
  Description of a surgical technique.
  
  
  METHODS
  A sterile handheld pacemaker magnet is used to evaluate the prosthesis prior to implantation. The magnet is placed over the prosthesis and the prosthesis is placed directly on the magnet. Any evidence of magnetic attraction and the prosthesis is rejected prior to implantation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  None of the prostheses screened showed any magnetic attraction. As a control, steel wire was cut into pieces with dimensions similar to prostheses. These sections of wire were readily attracted to the magnet.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Intraoperative screening of metallic prostheses for magnetic susceptibility is possible using a sterile handheld pacemaker magnet.
authors.affiliation: Eastern Oklahoma Hearing and Balance Center, 5020 E. 68th, Tulsa, OK 74136, USA.
authors.forename: David W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: White
mesh_terms: D007432:Intraoperative Period; D008280:Magnetics; D008670:Metals; D009998:Ossicular Prosthesis; D013199:Stapes
chemical_list: D008670:Metals