Management of conductive hearing loss from otitis media in children operative techniques in otolaryngology

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is the most common cause of conductive hearing loss in children. Although middle ear effusions will often respond spontaneously, many children will develop chronic OME (COME) and require tympanostomy tube placement to achieve consistent middle ear health and to normalize hearing. While tympanostomy tube placement is a simple procedure, it is essential for any Otolaryngologist that manages children to have an in-depth knowledge of current evidence-based guidelines for the management of otitis media in children, given the incredibly high prevalence of the condition and the high frequency of tympanostomy tube placement relative to other otologic procedures. This article will review current guidelines for the management of otitis media in children, indications for tympanostomy tube placement, recommended management of risk factors for COME in children, intraoperative considerations, postoperative management guidelines, and avoidance/management of potential complications.