A chelating agent is an organic compound capable of forming a stable complex with a multivalent positive ion such as calcium. In this process, coordinate bonding occurs in some of the atoms forming the ring, as a result of which the calcium becomes such an integral part of the complex that it loses its ionic properties and cannot be precipitated by commonly used precipitating agents.
This ability to bind calcium enables certain chelating agents to be used in the body to decalcify bone,1 to remove calcium deposits in the cornea,2 and to remove urinary calculi (experimentally).3 Many new uses are now being reported. The agent is presently administered intravenously, and, if properly given, can produce good results without causing hypocalcemia or any other notable adverse effects in the body.
In exploring the use of a chelating agent in otosclerosis, at least four objectives become theoretically possible:
To make surgical