Stapedotomy: is the color of the footplate important in the choice of the type of perforator?

OBJECTIVE To valuate the influence of the color of footplate in the choice of the type of perforator. STUDY DESIGN Prospective study. Level of Evidence 1b. SETTINGS Single hospital study in Avellino, Italy. SUBJECTS AND METHODS From the first of September 2008 to the 30th of June 2009, we considered 83 patients affected by otosclerosis. Patients were divided into 2 groups under footplate perforator used. In the group A, manual perforators (the more traumatic drills) were used. In group B, CO2 laser (the less traumatic drill) was used. The 2 groups under the color of visible portion of the footplate before removing the stapes superstructure were divided in 2 subgroups. Group IA includes 33 blue footplates and Group IIA 10 white footplates. Group IB includes 30 blue footplates and Group IIB 10 white footplates. We estimated whether there is statistical correlation between type of perforator, incidence of footplate complications, and color of footplate. RESULTS In group IA, we had 0 complications. In group IB, we had 0 complications. In group IIA, we had 7 complications. In group IIB, we had 2 complications. Comparison of incidence of footplate complications showed no statistical significance between group IA and IB and statistical significance between group IIA and IIB. CONCLUSION The footplate color is important in the choice of the type of perforator.