There has been much debate on the value of tympanostomy tubes that we are delighted to publish two review articles on this topic both authored by the same research group to help us better understand the effectiveness of tympanostomy tubes for otitis media and the best way to treat otorrhea after tubes are placed.
The first study by Steele et al. (10.1542/peds.2017-0125) focused on whether tubes are of benefit in children with chronic otitis media or recurrent acute otitis and the adverse events associated with tube placement. The systematic review identified 147 studies and the results when compiled into a meta-analysis are very interesting to read about. For example, while tubes improve hearing at 1-3 months post-placement relative to observation, by 12-24 months, that benefit appears to be lost. The possibility of adverse events are certainly to be considered in deciding to place tubes, and this first study helps identify just what those events might be and their frequency of occurrence. One of those events for example is ear drainage after tubes are placed, prompting a second review by the same team (10.1542/peds.2017-0667) of 25 articles for what is the best way to prevent and treat otorrhea? For example, does the use of ear plugs when swimming help or what about the use of antibiotic or antibiotic-steroid drops for the draining ear with tubes? Rather than share all the information contained in these two reviews, please link to them so that when it comes to making a decision about ear tubes or what to do if complications like otorrhea occur. These two studies will make consideration of tympanostomy tubes one that will be ear today and probably still ear tomorrow.
