Laser office ventilation of ears with insertion of tubes.

OBJECTIVE Myringotomy with insertion of pressure equalization tubes has proven to be extremely effective in treating persistent serous otitis media (SOM). This study compares the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure when performed in the operating room or with a laser in an office setting. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients selected either traditional myringotomy and tube (M & T; n = 29) done in an operating room under general anesthesia or Laser Office Ventilation of Ears with Insertion of Tubes (LOVE IT; n = 35) done in an office setting with only topical anesthesia. The reasons for selecting either M&T or LOVE IT and satisfaction with the procedure chosen were evaluated by survey, the results of which were compared statistically. Chart review was performed to determine the time and cost of the procedures, time interval from diagnosis to treatment, tube longevity, and complications. RESULTS Overall satisfaction was similar with both procedures. Patients and families were more likely to choose LOVE IT based on the anesthetic technique involved (P < 0.001, chi(2)). M&T required less time to perform, whereas the cost of LOVE IT was less. Tube longevity and complication rates were similar between the two procedures, and all complications were minor. CONCLUSIONS LOVE IT is a potential alternative to traditional M&T in the treatment of SOM. LOVE IT is most likely to be selected by patients/parents who wish to avoid a general anesthetic and provides a level of satisfaction similar to that of traditional M&T.