Question: A 32 year old female undergoes middle ear exploration for possible otosclerosis. Upon examining the ossicular chain the stapes is noted to be fixed while the malleus-incus complex moves well. Otosclerosis is suspected but after curettage of the scutum the footplate is noted to have very thick bone. However, the oval window boundaries can still be seen. What is this abnormality called?

a) Obliterative otosclerosis

b) Osteopetrosis

c) Congenital footplate fixation

d) Biscuit footplate

[Answer will be posted with next week's new question]

Answer to last week's question, “Supply Route" (July 15, 2019)

D - Thoracodorsal artery 15 cm.