Incus

Definition and stakes

A System of Operative Surgery, Volume 4…

“ A variety of instruments have been described for the purpose of removal of the incus. Ludewig’s incus hook (named after Ludewig, who was one of the first to draw attention to this operation) is still recommended by many as being the best. It consists of a solid curved hook, having a length of 5 millimetres and a width of 2 millimetres, bent at right angles to its shaft (Fig. 203) . A pair of these are necessary, one for each ear; also several sets of different sizes may be required owing to the variation in depth, height, and roof of the attic region. ”
Source: Gutenberg

A System of Operative Surgery, Volume 4…

“ In this particular case, division of the tensor tympani with Schwartze’s tenotome and then extraction of the malleus by means of Sexton’s forceps is a better procedure than trying to encircle its shaft with Delstanche’s ring-knife.
5. Removal of the incus by the ordinary instruments may be rendered impossible owing to the narrowness of the attic posteriorly from chronic thickening of its walls. In these cases a seeker, such as Schwartze uses in the mastoid operation (Fig. 219) , may be employed with advantage. It is passed over the incus in the same manner as an incus hook.
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Source: Gutenberg

A System of Operative Surgery, Volume 4…

“ If the malleus and incus be still in situ, they can now be seen and can usually be removed by the curette. No force must be used. Removal of the incus is a matter of no difficulty. In the case of the malleus there may be some resistance owing to the attachment of the tendon of the tensor tympani muscle. If so, the malleus should be grasped by a fine pair of forceps and the tendon severed by means of Schwartze’s tenotomy knife. ”
Source: Gutenberg

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