Drainage or paracentesis

Tympanostomy tube insertion and tympanic membrane incision are two the most frequently performed surgical procedures in otolaryngology, especially in children. The tympanic membrane incision - paracentesis, or myringotomy – is an incision of the tympanic membrane for diagnostic purposes or to allow drainage of pathological secretion from the tympanic cavity. Tympanostomy tube insertion involves incision made in the tympanic membrane and insertion of a ventilation tube (various types and for various periods of time) to improve hearing and aeration of the tympanic cavity. Procedures are performed through the ear canal (transcanal approach), under local or general anesthesia. Complications may occur in some cases of paracentesis and tympanostomy tube insertion.