A new self-fixing and articulated malleus grip stapedectomy prosthesis.

A new prosthesis for malleus-grip stapedectomy is presented: the Clip(R) Piston MVP according to Häusler. The titanium piston is equipped with a self-fixing clip mechanism for automatic fixation of the prosthesis on the proximal malleus handle as well as a ball and socket articulation allowing easy introduction of the piston at an optimal angle into the oval window as well as adjustment of the insertion depth. A first series of malleus-grip stapedectomies performed with the Clip Piston MVP shows a hearing gain of 20 to 50 dB and a residual air-bone gap of < or =20 dB in all cases.