Secretory otitis media in children. (A retrospective study of 249 cases)

A retrospective study of 249 children with secretory otitis media is presented. Recurrence rates and complications encountered are recorded. In cases of unilateral secretory otitis media, it is recommended that a grommet should not be inserted in the second (dry) ear, as the chance of fluid occurring in that ear later was only 0-12 per cent. When both ears are found to be dry, again it is recommended that grommets should not be inserted, as the chances of grommet insertion becoming necessary later were only 5.5 per cent. It is concluded that myringotomy, with or without grommets, is a beneficial operation with minimal complications.