A new treatment for chronic secretory otitis media.

THIS PRELIMINARY report illustrates the successful application of a very simple and inexpensive procedure in the treatment of chronic secretory otitis media. A small piece of plastic tubing,* measuring about 1.5 mm. in diameter, is inserted into the middle ear through a conventional myringotomy incision. This provides continuous ventilation of the middle ear and allows the lining membrane to return to normal. It also permits drainage of fluid into the external auditory canal and prevents the incision from closing prematurely. The tube may be left in place as long as desired—two to three weeks has been long enough in most cases. The tubing is inert, and no evidence of irritation or unfavorable reaction has been observed. TECHNIQUE A conventional myringotomy is performed and followed by repeated suction and inflation to remove as much fluid as possible. A piece of tubing about 1 cm. long is cut with a 45-degree bevel