Dr. Priyanka J. Hardikar

Myringotomy is a surgical procedure involving a small incision in the eardrum (tympanic membrane) to allow fluid to drain from the middle ear. This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure, treat infections, and improve hearing. In many cases, a small tube (tympanostomy tube) is inserted into the incision to keep it open and facilitate continuous drainage and ventilation.

Indications for Myringotomy

• Chronic Otitis Media: Persistent or recurrent ear infections that do not respond to medical treatment.
• Otitis Media with Effusion: Fluid accumulation in the middle ear that causes hearing loss or discomfort and persists for several months.
• Acute Otitis Media: Severe ear infection with significant pain or complications like mastoiditis.
• Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Chronic problems with the Eustachian tube causing pressure imbalances and fluid build-up.
• Barotrauma: Damage to the ear caused by sudden changes in pressure, such as during air travel or scuba diving.

Benefits of Myringotomy

• Relief from Pain and Pressure: Reduces discomfort caused by fluid build-up.
• Improved Hearing: Helps restore hearing affected by fluid in the middle ear.
• Prevention of Recurrence: Reduces the frequency of ear infections.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Particularly in children, it can improve speech development and behavior impacted by hearing loss.