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An Alternative to Tubulation

Lars Andréasson, MD, PhD; Anita Bylander, MD; Alf Ivarsson, PhD; Örjan Tjernström, MD, PhD

Arch Otolaryngol. 1983;109(6):358-359.

Abstract
• In this pilot study, sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆), a nontoxic inert gas infused into the ear during myringotomy and acting as a gas cushion behind an intact eardrum, was tested on five children with bilateral serous otitis media. The contralateral ear was treated with air as a control. A significant difference in air-bone gaps (frequencies, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kHz) lasting at least eight weeks was found between the ears treated with SF₆ and the air-treated ears. No side effects were noted. Tympanograms showed varying patterns. The long-term effects were also favorable for the SF₆-treated ears. In selected cases, eg, ears with thin scars and retractions, this might be a valuable alternative to tubulation. Further studies are being carried out.

(Arch Otolaryngol 1983;109:358-359)

Author Affiliations
From the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Lund, Malmö (Sweden) General Hospital.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication Dec 10, 1982.

Reprint requests to Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic, Malmö General Hospital, 21401, Malmö, Sweden (Dr Andréasson).

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