Myringotomy

What Is Myringotomy?

When pus accumulates in the middle ear due to infections, surgeons (otolaryngologists) often try to relieve the ensuing pain and pressure by draining the fluid in a surgery known as myringotomy.  During this procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the tympanic membrane (ear drum).  Myringotomy operations are usually performed to treat otitis media, and unless pressure equalization tubes (myringotomy tubes) are placed in the incision at the time of surgery, the wound heals up within a couple of weeks.  If tubes are inserted during myringotomy, they can keep the incision open facilitating external ventilation for a few weeks, months, or years, depending on the design of the tube. 

In consenting adults, the surgery may be done under local anaesthesia, but children usually require general anaesthesia.  An operating microscope is normally used to perform the procedure.  After myringotomy operations, most patients are discharged within a couple of hours.  Normal work can be resumed after 24 hours unless there is pain or uncontrollable discharge.