1. Introduction

    A myringotomy allows the pressure to equalize between the middle ear and the atmosphere, reducing the pressure in the middle ear compartment. Simple tubes with a lumen are placed through the patient’s tympanic membrane to alleviate the pressure created in the middle ear usually seen with chronic serous otitis media or recurrent otitis media. These tubes function as an escape for the ostium and enable nonstop drainage of this pressure. Chronic otitis media is manifested as fluid in the middle ear. Recurrent otitis media, a common pediatric disorder, is defined as six or more episodes of otitis media over the prior year. Untreated otitis media may lead to permanent middle ear damage and hearing loss; therefore, prompt treatment is necessary. Children with chronic otitis media frequently have accompanying recurrent upper respiratory infections (URIs). Intervals between URIs may be brief. The patient is usually on a regimen of antibiotics. Thus, scheduling surgery during these interludes is often impractical. Often the eradication of middle ear fluid and inflammation resolves the URI; therefore, surgery should not be delayed.