How To Treat Mastoiditis

Drainage Through A Myringotomy

Doctors often suggest drainage through a myringotomy if antibiotic therapy fails or doesn't resolve the infection entirely. However, this type of surgery is something patients should avoid if they can, which is precisely why it is so important for patients to do what their doctor tells them to increase their chances of treating this infection with medication rather than surgery. If a patient does need surgery, however, a myringotomy requires the doctor to make a small incision on the eardrum.

The incision allows the build-up of fluid inside the eardrum to drain. When it drains, it helps relieve the pressure. This pressure causes tremendous pain in almost anyone with an ear infection, but it is especially painful if it is a child feeling the pain. Doctors might even recommend inserting a small tube into the eardrum to allow future fluids to drain correctly for patients who suffer from frequent ear infections and are at an increased risk for mastoiditis.