Treatment of choice for glue ear Is:
**Core Concept**
The treatment of glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion (OME), involves addressing the underlying causes of fluid accumulation in the middle ear. This condition often results from Eustachian tube dysfunction, which impairs the normal pressure regulation in the middle ear.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The treatment of choice for glue ear is usually **tympanostomy tube insertion**. This surgical procedure involves placing a small tube in the eardrum to drain the fluid and restore air pressure in the middle ear. The tubes also help to ventilate the middle ear and promote healing of the eardrum. This procedure is often performed under general anesthesia in children, as it can be challenging to perform under local anesthesia.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Antibiotics are not the primary treatment for glue ear, as the condition is often caused by viral infections or Eustachian tube dysfunction rather than bacterial infections.
**Option B:** Observation alone may be recommended for children with glue ear who are asymptomatic, but it is not the treatment of choice for children with persistent symptoms.
**Option C:** Corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation in the middle ear, but they are not the primary treatment for glue ear.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Tympanostomy tube insertion is a highly effective treatment for glue ear, with studies showing significant improvement in hearing and reduction in symptoms in over 90% of children.
**Correct Answer: C. Corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation in the middle ear, but they are not the primary treatment for glue ear.