Surgical treatment of chronic otitis media with effusion

Otitis media with effusion is the most frequent reason for admission to hos pital for surgery in children. There are worldwide differences in the manag ement of the condition. Recent studies have evaluated indications for surge ry, surgical treatment methods, outcome measures following surgery and sequ elae. The present report defines the increased risk of behavioural problems in pre-school children with persistent disease. Factors affecting the outc ome of surgery with ventilation tubes are discussed. Assessment is made of the complications due to the disease and those resulting from treatment wit h ventilation tubes. Finally, a review is made of the various international guidelines for the management of persistent disease as a basis for good cl inical practice. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved .