Technology once beyond our wildest imagination is now commonplace in our homes and our businesses. The laser, once thought of as a toy for Luke Skywalker, is a commonplace instrument in the physician's office and has opened new worlds in healing. For the otolaryngologist (ENT), this computer-driven instrument has eased both children and adults into pain-free relief from chronic ear infections.

Otitis media, or inflammation of the middle ear, accounts for 3% of all patient visits, and is also the number one reason for antibiotic prescriptions. Early intervention for ear infections is extremely important in protecting the child's hearing, and subsequent speech and language development. Young children are prone to ear infections because their eustachian tube is shorter and more horizontal than an adults. As a result, bacteria can easily enter the middle ear from the back of the nose and throat.

When an infection occurs, fluid builds up behind the eardrum causing tremendous pain. In one of ten children, that fluid can remain in the ear for three or more months.

Because children may not demonstrate the common symptoms of illness, it is important to have their ears checked. If they pull or scratch at the ear, are irritable, or have a discolored discharge from the nose or eyes, get them to the doctor. While there are many more symptoms of an ear infection, careful observation will serve as an early warning system.

Thanks to new technology, when those warning bells go off, the trip to the ear doctor does not need to be one of fear and trepidation. There is a new revolution in the treatment of otitis media and it's working wonders for children and adults. No more cold hospital rooms, no more fear of general anesthesia. Here's where the laser comes into play.

Now, your child is comfortably seated on your lap or is reclining and is tuned into the video screen that will show the laser at work. First, the physician applies a topical anesthetic drop on the eardrum that takes effect in about ten minutes. That time can be occupied with play, food, or whatever you want. When the eardrum is numbed, the doctor will first touch it gently, to be sure. Then while the child watches the video screen, the doctor will place the OtoLAM handpiece into the ear and also check it out on the monitor. Everyone has a ringside seat. When the laser is adjusted to the specific anatomical needs, a short blast, no more than one tenth of a second, creates a very precise hole in the eardrum and presto - a loud pop, a pressure change, and immediate relief.

We have found that the hole will remain for two to four weeks. During that time, the ventilation of the middle ear helps prevent fluid buildup, and in most cases, gives enough time to clear up the infection, thus reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

What more could a parent want for their child? Besides, it is pretty cool to watch it all on TV and get a picture to take home, too.

Maybe the next best thing would be popcorn and previews. Click here for a video clip of the OtoLAM procedure

Eardrum before the procedure	Eardrum with hole from laser

If you have any questions, need additional information, or would like to schedule an appointment, call TOLL FREE 1-888-418-9200