Do you have frequent ear problems? Let's talk about eardrum piercing (Myringotomy)

Does your little one often have earaches? Or do you sometimes feel pressure, heaviness, or difficulty hearing in your ears? The main cause of these problems is fluid buildup in the middle ear, which is behind the eardrum. So today we are going to talk about a simple, yet very effective treatment for this.

What is Myringotomy?

Simply put, a myringotomy is a procedure that involves making a very small hole in your eardrum (tympanic membrane) to drain any unwanted fluid (such as pus, water, or blood) that has accumulated in your middle ear. This is usually done by an ear, nose, and throat specialist, called an ENT surgeon . Sometimes this is done in just one ear, but other times it may be done in both ears.

Often, the doctor will do something else at the same time as this surgery. That is, he will insert a very small tube (ear tube) through the small hole that was made. We call this a tympanostomy . This tube helps to balance the pressure inside the ear and also stops frequent infections.

In what cases is this surgery necessary?

This provides relief from various problems caused by fluid accumulation in the ear. If you have one or more of the conditions below, your doctor may recommend this treatment.

How do you prepare for surgery?

Your doctor will give you all the instructions you need before the surgery. Generally, it is not a good idea to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the surgery . Also, you should have a trusted friend or family member drive you home after the surgery.

How is the surgery done?

This is a much simpler and quicker process than you might think. It can be completed in as little as 15-20 minutes.

1. Anesthesia: Most of the time, this is done under general anesthesia . This means you won't feel anything, you'll be asleep. However, in some cases, depending on your condition, you may be given a topical anesthetic to numb your ear . However, you won't feel any pain. If you do, tell your doctor right away.

2. Examining the eardrum: The doctor will carefully examine your eardrum using a small microscope.

3. Making a small incision: Next, a very small incision or hole is made in the eardrum using a special instrument.

4. Fluid removal: Finally, a small tube (suction device) is inserted and the fluid that has accumulated in the middle ear is slowly and carefully sucked out.

This usually doesn't require stitches. The small hole will heal on its own over time. After the surgery, you'll be left with something like a piece of gauze in your ear.

What are the benefits of this?

There are many benefits you will get from this simple surgery.

• The ear pain and pressure are gone.
• Frequent ear infections are reduced.
• Hearing that was lost due to fluid accumulation is restored.
• If there were balance issues, they will improve.
• As children's hearing improves, their learning and speaking skills improve.

Are there any risks in this?

As with any surgery, there are some risks. For example, infection, excessive bleeding, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. However, these are very rare. Here are some complications that are specific to myringotomy surgery:

• The hole made in the eardrum does not close on its own and remains as a permanent hole .
• Fluid draining from the ear that does not stop after several days.
• Thickening or scarring of the eardrum may have a small impact on hearing in the future.
• Very little damage to other parts of the ear during the surgery.

How long does it take to heal and what to take care of after surgery?

You will feel much better within a day or two after the surgery. It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly to ensure a speedy recovery. If the pain increases instead of decreasing, or if you feel anything else unusual, inform your doctor immediately.

Generally, you should follow these instructions:

• Avoid completely submerging your head in water.
• Avoid shaking your head rapidly for about a month.
• Take all the medicines prescribed by the doctor on time .
• Be sure to wear earplugs when bathing, showering, or swimming.

Most people can return to work or school in two to three days. Ask your doctor when it is best to resume your normal activities.

Common conditions that may occur after surgery

It's normal for these things to happen after surgery. Don't worry about them.

• Dizziness: You may feel a little dizzy and have a slight change in balance for a few days. If this persists for more than 12 hours, tell your doctor .
• Ear discharge: Clear or yellow fluid draining from the ear for two to three days is a sign that the surgery was successful . If the discharge continues for more than a week, inform your doctor .
• Ear pain: There may be some mild pain in and around the ear for a day or two. The painkillers prescribed by the doctor will be sufficient for this.
• Heaviness in the ear/hearing loss: After surgery, you may feel like something is stuck in your ear. This will go away on its own in a few days.

When do you need to call the doctor immediately?

You should be aware of the side effects that may occur after surgery. If you experience any of the symptoms below, call your doctor immediately . If the condition is serious (e.g. chest pain, difficulty breathing), go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) .

• Signs of infection such as fever and chills .
• Severe nausea and vomiting .
• Severe pain that does not subside even after taking medication.
• Excessive discharge of blood or pus from the ear.
• Difficulty hearing or hearing loss for more than a few days.
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing .
• Swelling or discoloration of the skin around the ear.

Fluid buildup in your or your child's ear can cause ear pain, pressure, and hearing loss. When these symptoms persist, they can be a major disruption to daily life. A simple surgery called a myringotomy can remove the fluid, reducing the risk of pain, infection, and hearing loss. Talk to your doctor about whether this treatment is right for you.

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