A 10-year-old child with persistent glue ear (otitis media with effusion) for 3 months, bilateral conductive hearing loss >25 dB, and speech delay is best managed by:
- A Myringotomy and ventilation tube (grommet) insertion ✓
- B Watchful waiting for another 3 months
- C Oral antibiotics for 4 weeks
- D Systemic steroids for 2 weeks
Correct answer: A. Myringotomy and ventilation tube (grommet) insertion
Explanation
Otitis media with effusion (OME, glue ear) that persists beyond 3 months with significant hearing loss (>25 dB) and developmental/speech consequences is an indication for surgical intervention with myringotomy and grommet (ventilation tube) insertion. This immediately restores hearing by ventilating the middle ear. Watchful waiting is appropriate for shorter durations without developmental impact; antibiotics and steroids have limited long-term benefit and are not recommended as primary treatment for chronic OME.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.