Otitis media with effusion can be successfully treated without the use of middle ear ventilation tubes. Middle ear inflation will, if performed properly, empty most ears as effectively as direct suction through a myringotomy incision. Over 12,000 patients with middle ear effusion have responded to conservative treatment which includes medical management aided by middle ear inflations using a modification of the classic politzerization technique. The technique of controlled middle ear inflation is described and the proper medical management discussed. The avoidance of oral decongestants is stressed as is the proper diagnosis and treatment of the etiological factors causing the formation of the fluid.
