Myringotomy and ventilation tubes: a report of 1,568 ears

We reviewed the records of all patients who had a myringotomy and insertion of a ventilation tube at Otologic Medical Group during a 6-year period; there were 2,266 intubations on 1,568 ears. Uncomplicated serous otitis media was the indication in 1.055 ears; 19% developed brief episodes of otorrhea. Persistent otorrhea necessitated tube removal in 9 ears, all but 2 of which became dry. These 2 patients required mastoid surgery. We conclude that myringotomy and insertion of a ventilation tube in serous otitis media is associated with infrequent complications, and these complications are probably related more to the underlying disease process than to the ventilation tube.