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A prospective randomized study of four commonly used tympanostomy tubes
M T Weigel1, M Y Parker, M M Goldsmith
1Division of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill 27599-7070.
The Laryngoscope
|March 1, 1989
Summary
For middle ear aeration, the Shepard and Armstrong tympanostomy tubes showed fewer complications like otorrhea and plugging compared to other options. These tubes offer a potentially better choice for treating ear infections.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Otitis Media Management
Background:
- Tympanostomy tube placement is effective for acute otitis media and otitis media with effusion.
- Limited objective data exists for selecting the optimal tympanostomy tube for middle ear aeration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare postplacement complications of four common tympanostomy tubes.
- To guide otolaryngologists in choosing tubes for effective middle ear aeration.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized study of Shepard Teflon grommet, Armstrong beveled tube, Reuter-Bobbin tube, and Goode T-tube.
- Average follow-up of 17 months to assess complications.
- Complications evaluated: otorrhea, plugging, residual perforation, and tympanic membrane persistence.
Main Results:
- Shepard and Armstrong tubes demonstrated low rates of plugging and otorrhea.
- Both Shepard and Armstrong tubes had extrusion times averaging less than one year.
- Reuter-Bobbin tubes showed higher plugging rates; T-tubes had increased otorrhea, persistence, and residual perforations.
Conclusions:
- Shepard and Armstrong tympanostomy tubes appear to have favorable outcomes regarding common postplacement complications.
- The Goode T-tube was associated with a higher incidence of complications, including residual perforations.
- Further research may refine tympanostomy tube selection for improved patient outcomes.