PURPOSE: The purpose of the myringotomy tube insertion procedure is to remove fluid and ventilate the middle ear space subsequent to otitis media with effusion (OME). The placement of the tube in the tympanic membrane provides the means for drainage of any fluid buildup in the middle ear while creating an avenue for the passage of air to equilize pressure on either side of the drum.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS:
1. Immediate improvement of hearing.

2. Subsequent improvement of speech.

3. Reduction in the number of subsequent ear infections.

4. Shorter duration of an infection, should one occur.

5. Prevention of tympanic membrane and ossicular bone degeneration from chronic ear infections.

6. Reduction in amount of antibiotics administered to prevent resistant organisms.

7. Adenoidectomy removes tissue obstructing the eustachian tube to permit normal ventilation of the middle ear space.

POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS:
Known potential adverse effects include:

1. Ventilation tube may become occluded and cease to function properly.

2. Early extrusion of the ventilation tube may occur.

3. Infection from water contaminants entering through the tube may occur.

4. Persistent perforation may occur which may require a grafting procedure to close.

5. Patient sensitivity to certain materials may result in tissue irritation.

6. Bleeding is a potential risk only if adenoidectomy is performed. Rarely, does it require any additional therapy.

7. There are risks involved with general anesthesia, but are uncommon. You may discuss these with the anesthesiologist before surgery.