title: A simple method to prevent the obstruction of post-tympanoplasty ventilation tubes.
abstract: The simultaneous insertion of a ventilation tube or grommet during tympanoplasty is a well-recognised practice among otologists. It is used to reverse atelectasis and to repneumatise the middle ear. A troublesome problem which can occur is post-operative, intraluminal grommet obstruction by blood or viscous mucoid secretions. Routine post-operative use of eardrops may help prevent grommet obstruction but cannot be administered after tympanoplasty when the ear canal is packed with dressings for up to three weeks post-operatively. In this article, we describe a simple method to prevent post-tympanoplasty grommet obstruction.
authors: Department of Otolaryngology, University Hospital Lewisham, London, UK.
authors: A C
authors: AC
authors: Leong
authors: D A
authors: DA
authors: Bowdler
mesh_terms: D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000601:surgery; D005781:Gelatin Sponge, Absorbable / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006490:Hemostatics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008876:Middle Ear Ventilation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000601:surgery; D001261:Pulmonary Atelectasis; D014433:Tympanoplasty
chemical_list: D006490:Hemostatics