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Published on: January 17, 2011
Persistent otorrhoea after ventilation tube insertion: a treatment protocol
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester.
Abstract:
Otorrhoea is the commonest complication of ventilation tube (grommet) insertion. In some cases it may be unresponsive to short courses of topical antibiotic/steroid drops and/or systemic antibiotics. This study investigated whether a five-day course of inpatient treatment with intravenous antibiotics, topical medication and daily microsuction was effective in treating persistent otorrhoea. Eleven subjects were included, of whom nine responded to the proposed treatment regimen. We recommend that patients with persistent otorrhoea after ventilation tube insertion should be managed according to these guidelines before considering an examination under anaesthetic or a ventilation tube removal.
Insights
Persistent ear discharge (otorrhoea) after ventilation tube insertion can be challenging. A five-day inpatient treatment of intravenous antibiotics, topical medication, and microsuction effectively resolved persistent otorrhoea in most patients.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Otorrhoea is a frequent complication following ventilation tube (grommet) insertion.
- Some cases of otorrhoea are resistant to standard topical or systemic antibiotic treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a five-day inpatient treatment regimen for persistent otorrhoea post-ventilation tube insertion.
Main Methods:
- Eleven patients with persistent otorrhoea were treated with intravenous antibiotics, topical medication, and daily microsuction.
- Treatment duration was five days in an inpatient setting.
Main Results:
- Nine out of eleven (81.8%) subjects showed a positive response to the proposed treatment.
- The treatment regimen was effective in resolving persistent otorrhoea in the majority of participants.
Conclusions:
- A five-day inpatient treatment course including intravenous antibiotics, topical medication, and daily microsuction is recommended for persistent otorrhoea.
- This management strategy should be considered before resorting to examination under anaesthesia or grommet removal.
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