Endoscopic Myringotomy - Operative Treatment of Secretory Otitis

Endoscopic myringotomy with ventilation tube insertion – A modern approach to managing secretory otitis

Is your child having trouble hearing? There is a solution!

Minimally invasive approach. No external incisions. Enhanced visualization. Quick recovery. Endoscopic insertion of ventilation tubes is an advanced surgical method that effectively resolves secretory otitis in children.

Advantages of the endoscopic approach

At St. Catherine Specialty Hospital we use a state-of-the-art technique – endoscopic myringotomy with insertion of ventilation tubes.

Mislav Malić, M.D., Ph.D., otorhinolaryngology specialist, with experience in over 1000 endoscopic procedures, utilizes advanced 4K technology to provide:

• access through the ear canal – the procedure is performed through a natural route with no external cuts
• improved visualization – 4K endoscopy allows for precise inspection and access to the eardrum
• preservation of healthy tissue – minimal trauma to surrounding structures
• high precision – accurate placement of tubes in the optimal position
• quick recovery – children wake up from anesthesia with improved hearing
• minimal postoperative discomfort – no bandages, no dressing changes
• suitable for all children – regardless of age

Secretory otitis – causes and consequences

Fluid trapped behind the eardrum (secretory otitis) can significantly affect a child's development:

• conductive hearing loss, which can become permanent if untreated
• increased risk of bacterial infections and ear inflammation
• impaired speech and communication skill development
• difficulties with social interaction and learning

Ventilation tubes – An effective solution 

A ventilation tube is a small plastic implant inserted into the eardrum through a minor incision (myringotomy). It serves several functions:

• drains fluid from the middle ear
• allows air to circulate properly within the middle ear
• prevents fluid from reaccumulating behind the eardrum
• immediately improves hearing
• reduces frequency of ear infections – children with tubes have significantly fewer middle ear infections

Procedure and postoperative care

Using modern endoscopic equipment, the procedure includes:

1. Making a small incision in the eardrum (myringotomy)
2. Carefully removing fluid from the middle ear
3.  Precisely placing the ventilation tube
4.  If necessary, adenoid removal (adenoidectomy) can be performed during the same operation

Ventilation tubes usually remain in place for 6–12 months or longer. During this period, it's important to protect the ears from direct water exposure by using special earplugs. Dr. Malić monitors the condition and determines the optimal time for tube removal – although in some cases, the tubes fall out spontaneously. After removal the eardrum typically heals on its own.

If your child shows signs of hearing loss, frequent ear infections or delayed speech development, endoscopic ventilation tube placement may be the ideal solution for improving hearing and preventing recurrent infections. Contact us with confidence!