Serous Otitis Media (SOM)

Its a condition where in there is collection of fluid in middle ear (tympanic cavity) either due to impairment in drainage of normal secretion of fluid in middle ear or due to excess secretion. Presents with symptoms(complains) of impaired hearing, tinnitus(abnormal sounds in ear), earache. This condition can be treated by conservative method by giving decongestants either oral or locally acting nasal drops, to treat the infections by giving antibiotics to decrease the secretions. If this fails then surgical drainage by myringotomy in the poster inferior quadrant of tympanic membrane to be done. Beer can principle is used to help in better drainage where another incision is made in poster superior quadrant so that air enters middle ear through this hole and helps in faster and better drainage. Grommet can be inserted for long term treatment.