New middle ear aspirator for treatment of otitis media with effusion.

Aspiration of the middle ear was first described by Trowbridge 1 as a new treatment of acute aero-otitis media. This method is applicable also in cases of serous effusion in the middle ear which commonly occur during the course of or after an acute upper respiratory infection. Conservative treatment consisting of vasoconstrictors and middle ear inflation will clear up many of these conditions within two weeks. However, one or two aspirations not only afford immediate relief of symptoms but will markedly hasten recovery. Myringotomy is no longer indicated in serous effusion, as it is far more traumatizing and less effective than aspiration. Using the technique as described in this presentation, the surgeon can remove the fluid without risk and with practically no discomfort to the patient. The method of middle ear aspiration, as originally described by Trowbridge, required the aid of an assistant to withdraw the plunger of the syringe