Persistent ear infections, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and muffled hearing can affect everyday comfort and communication. When fluid accumulates behind the eardrum and does not resolve with appropriate medical management, a procedure called myringotomy may be recommended. Myringotomy surgery in Mumbai can help drain trapped middle-ear fluid, relieve pressure, and improve hearing in suitable patients, including children and adults.
Dr. Shama Kovale, a Senior Consultant ENT surgeon at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, provides evaluation and treatment for a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. With more than 23 years of clinical and surgical experience, she focuses on careful assessment and personalised treatment planning. Understanding the procedure, its benefits, recovery, and possible risks can help patients make informed decisions about their ear health.
Myringotomy is a surgical procedure in which an ENT surgeon makes a small incision in the tympanic membrane, commonly called the eardrum. This opening allows fluid or pus trapped in the middle ear to drain, reducing pressure and helping address certain ear conditions.
In some cases, the surgeon may insert a small ventilation tube, also called a tympanostomy tube or grommet, into the incision. The tube helps air enter the middle ear and allows fluid to drain over time. It may be recommended when fluid repeatedly accumulates or persists despite other treatment.
Myringotomy is not necessary for every ear infection. The decision depends on the duration of symptoms, hearing assessment, examination findings, the patient’s age, and the response to previous treatment.
An ENT specialist may consider myringotomy when fluid behind the eardrum causes persistent symptoms or complications. Common reasons include:
The procedure is recommended only after a clinical assessment. Some cases improve naturally or with treatment of the underlying cause, so observation may be appropriate before surgery.
The treatment process usually begins with a consultation, during which the doctor reviews symptoms, previous ear infections, medical history, and any hearing concerns. The ear is examined, and tests may be recommended to determine whether fluid is present and how it affects hearing.
The ENT surgeon examines the eardrum and middle ear. Depending on the patient’s condition, investigations may include a hearing test or tympanometry, which measures how the eardrum responds to changes in air pressure. These findings help determine whether surgery is likely to provide meaningful benefit.