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Grommets inserted for secretory otitis media in children led to larger mastoid air cell systems on the grommet side years later. This supports the environmental theory of pneumatization in the mastoid bone.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Otitis Media
- Mastoid Development
Background:
- Secretory otitis media (SOM) is common in children.
- The development of mastoid air cells (pneumatization) is influenced by environmental factors.
- Previous research has explored factors affecting mastoid pneumatization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effect of grommets (ventilation tubes) on mastoid cell system development in children with bilateral secretory otitis media.
- To compare mastoid pneumatization between ears treated with grommets and those treated with paracentesis alone.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 33 children with bilateral SOM underwent adenoidectomy.
- One ear received a grommet, while the other underwent paracentesis.
- Mastoid X-rays were taken 7 years postoperatively and analyzed using planimetry.
Main Results:
- The mastoid cell system was significantly larger on the side where grommets were inserted compared to the paracentesis side.
- This finding suggests a positive influence of ventilation on mastoid pneumatization.
Conclusions:
- Ventilation tube insertion for secretory otitis media promotes enhanced mastoid pneumatization.
- The results support the environmental theory, indicating that aeration influences bone development in the mastoid.
- Long-term follow-up demonstrates the impact of otitis media treatment on craniofacial development.
Abstract:
In 33 children, median age 4 years, with bilateral secretory otitis, adenoidectomy was performed, a grommet was inserted in the right ear, and paracentesis was done on the left side. Seven years postoperatively x-rays were taken of the children's mastoid cell systems and these were measured by planimetry. A significantly larger cell system was found on the side with grommets, which is considered to support the environmental theory of pneumatization.