MIDDLE-EAR VENTILATION WITH HYDROXYLVENT TUBE - REVIEW OF THE INITIALSERIES

Thirty HydroxylVent tubes were implanted in twenty-seven patients. The chief indications were unresolving eustachian tube dysfunction, with either collapse or perforation of the tympanic membrane. Every patient had undergone a lengthy course of treatment with conventional ventila tion tubes. Twenty ears (66%) showed good results, with prolonged vent ilation and restoration of middle ear function. Two tubes appeared to be open, with the development of a pinpoint perforation of the drum. E ight tubes occluded as a result of displacement of the tube, middle ea r pathology, or debris. Indications and techniques of management are d iscussed, along with an analysis of complications.