title: Analysis of secular trends in surgery for glue ear in the North Western Region (1975-1984).
abstract: Hospital Activity Analysis (HAA) data relating to operations for glue ear and tonsillectomy performed on residents of the North Western Region, aged 0-9 years during the period 1975-1984 were studied. The rate of surgery for glue ear has risen from 45/10,000 to 107/10,000 representing an increase of 137 per cent. The tonsillectomy rate by comparison has undergone a more modest increase of 19 per cent. The study casts doubt on a 'vacuum effect', as has been argued by Black. Marked variation in rates of surgery between Districts in the Region were noted, and the possible explanations discussed. A review of the literature revealed considerable controversy concerning the management of glue ear and the need for a definitive trial is highlighted.
authors.forename: E H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Friedman
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Regan
authors.forename: A S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: St Leger
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003625:Data Collection; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D010033:Otitis Media / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000601:surgery*; D010343:Patient Admission; D011159:Population Surveillance