| A myringotomy is an incision in the eardrum (tympanic membrane) that is often necessary to relieve pressure caused by fluid buildup in the internal, air-filled cavity (middle ear) beyond the eardrum. A myringotomy is the most common surgical procedure performed on the ear.
The procedure is commonly performed to help restore hearing and relieve pain following ear infections (otitis media) that may be accompanied by fluid buildup that medications alone cannot resolve. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| Myringotomy is performed to treat residual problems following ear infections. Even when resolved, ear infections often leave behind fluids that can build in the middle ear cavity. If these fluids persist for longer than several months, they can cause hearing loss and other symptoms such as loss of balance and severe pain.
Without intervention such as a myringotomy, individuals with an ongoing (chronic) condition are considered at risk to have spontaneous rupture of the eardrum and future hearing impairment. Intervention may also be necessary to prevent the spread of infection to other areas of the head. In rare cases, the procedure may also be considered for ongoing (chronic) episodes of discomfort from unequal ear pressure between the outside and internal ear cavity (barotrauma) caused by factors such as flying, deep sea diving, allergies, and congestion. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| A myringotomy is usually performed on an outpatient basis under either local or general anesthesia. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed immediately before and after the procedure to help resolve or prevent infection. A small cut (incision) is made in the eardrum (tympanic membrane), which alone may be enough to resolve the condition. In some cases, the incision may need to be followed with insertion of a small, hollow tube to assist with fluid drainage and help achieve equalized air pressure within the internal cavity (middle ear). The tube may be left in the eardrum from 6 months to a year. During this time, individuals need to be very careful to prevent water from entering the ear through the tube.
The procedure is generally considered mild, and the individual should resume work and other activities within a few days. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| A myringotomy is generally considered a mild, simple procedure that often resolves the underlying condition. In some individuals, however, a myringotomy may fail to cure damage to the eardrum severe enough to produce permanent hearing loss. At the very least, it is likely that the procedure will provide pain relief. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| Complications are very rare but, if present, usually involve infection requiring antibiotic treatment. Improper healing of the eardrum may require surgical correction. Scarring as a result of the procedure may lead to permanent hearing loss. Individuals may also experience an allergic reaction to anesthetic used during the procedure. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| In rare instances, individuals may experience permanent hearing loss that could lead to needed accommodations such as amplification or hearing aids at work. The individual may also experience problems with balance that make it necessary to reassign work tasks that require standing or fine motor skills. Time off for doctor appointments may be necessary. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor
| Cummings, T. J., et al., eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier, Inc., 2005. MD Consult. Elsevier, Inc. 22 May 2005 <http://home.mdconsult.com/das/book/47395235-2/view/1263?sid=369175934>. |
Source: Medical Disability Advisor