This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of autoinflation in preventing recurrence of otitis media with effusion (OME) and reducing the need for reoperation after tympanostomy tube (TT) extrusion in children. Sixty-six pediatric patients with chronic OME underwent TT placement, and 54 were included in the final analysis. After TT extrusion, participants were randomized into two groups: an autoinflation group using a handheld device (Eustachi) for five weeks, and an observation-only group. Patients were followed for two years post-extrusion, with periodic otoscopic and tympanometric assessments. The autoinflation group showed a lower recurrence rate (19.2%) compared to the observation group (35.7%), although this difference was not statistically significant. However, the reoperation rate was significantly lower in the autoinflation group (7.7% vs. 28.6%). Tympanometric findings suggested more stable middle ear pressure in the autoinflation group. These results indicate that autoinflation is a safe, feasible, and non-invasive method that may support eustachian tube function and reduce the need for repeat TT placement in children following TT extrusion.
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Recurrence rate of otitis media with effusion (OME)
Timeframe: Up to 24 months after tympanostomy tube extrusion