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.
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.
Review Date: 10/10/2008
Reviewed By: Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Reviewed By: Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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