Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common condition in preschool children, characterized by a non-purulent effusion in the middle ear. While it often resolves spontaneously, some children experience persistent or recurrent episodes that can lead to hearing loss and other complications. A recent study titled "The occurrence of otitis media with effusion in Dutch pre-school children" offers valuable insights into an alternative treatment approach that could be a game-changer for school therapists.
Understanding the Study
The study evaluated the effectiveness of Eustachian Tube Rehabilitation (ETR) in treating persistent OME. Thirty-five children with OME were divided into three groups based on their symptoms:
- Group I: Isolated OME
- Group II: OME and atypical swallowing
- Group III: OME, habitual mouth breathing, and atypical swallowing
All children underwent ETR, which included a combination of nasal hygiene, breathing exercises, muscle strengthening, and auto-insufflation. The results were promising, showing a significant improvement in middle ear conditions one and three months after treatment.
Key Findings
The study found that:
- The prevalence of type A tympanogram (indicating normal middle ear pressure) increased significantly after ETR.
- The prevalence of type B tympanogram (indicating fluid in the middle ear) decreased significantly.
- Children in Group III showed significant improvement only three months after the end of therapy.
Practical Applications for School Therapists
As a school therapist, incorporating ETR techniques can be highly beneficial for students with persistent OME. Here are some steps you can take:
- Implement nasal hygiene and breathing exercises as part of your therapy sessions.
- Encourage parents to engage in daily exercises with their children to ensure consistency.
- Monitor the progress through regular tympanometry assessments.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of ETR, further research is needed to validate these findings across larger populations and different settings. School therapists are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and consider participating in studies to contribute to the growing body of knowledge.
Conclusion
Eustachian Tube Rehabilitation offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments for otitis media with effusion. By incorporating these techniques into your therapy sessions, you can help improve middle ear ventilation and potentially avoid the need for surgical interventions.To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
The occurrence of otitis media with effusion in Dutch pre-school children 
