Factors affecting adenoidectomy for otitis media with effusion (glue ear)

One hundred and fifty-five children suffering bilateral otitis media with effusion (OME) and observed for three months have been followed postoperatively for twelve months. Surgery was randomly allocated into three groups: adenotonsillectomy; adenoidectomy; and no surgery. In all cases unilateral myringotomy and grommet insertion was performed. The contralateral unoperated ear was assessed subsequently for clearance of the effusion. Adenoidectomy produced resolution of the effusion in 31-45% of cases at one year, but tonsillectomy conferred no additional benefit. There was improved resolution in those with longer compared with shorter histories, and in older as opposed to younger children. Assessment of preoperative lateral cephalometric radiographs show improved resolution of the effusion following removal of larger, compared with smaller adenoids, but this effect was only demonstrable for three months. The effect of age was longer-lasting for up to one year postoperatively.