Myringotomy is a surgical procedure of the eardrum or tympanic membrane. The procedure is performed by making a small incision with a myringotomy knife through the layers of tympanic membrane. This surgical procedure permits direct access to the middle ear space and allows the release of middle-ear fluid, which is the end product of otitis media with effusion (OME), whether acute or chronic. OME is classified as serous, mucoid, or purulent.

The tube, which will usually fall out on its own in about six to 18 months, lets air flow through and keeps the middle ear dry.

• Reduce pain
• Improve hearing
• Cut down on the number of infections your child may have