Fusion of the ear bones
Definition
Fusion of the ear bones is the joining of the bones of the inner ear -- the incus, malleus, and stapes bones.
See also:
Causes
Fusion may be caused by:
- Birth (congenital) defect
- Infection
- Injury
Symptoms
Fusion of the bones leads to hearing loss, because the bones are not moving and vibrating in reaction to sound waves.
References
Torres AI, Backous DD. Clinical assessment and surgical treatment of conductive hearing loss. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 143.
Review Date:
8/3/2010
Reviewed By:
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Seth Schwartz, MD, MPH, Otolaryngologist, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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