Pediatric Ear Infections: Watchful Waiting May Be the Best Strategy

Dr. Berman and Dr. Grundfast agree that antibiotics and ventilating tubes both have their place in the treatment of AOM and OME, but that both conditions are more self-limiting than previously believed. Many factors must be taken into consideration by physicians and parents when making decisions regarding treatment, and even though more evidence is now available to assist with informed decision making, Dr. Berman cautions that there is more work to be done. He states, “I think the more answers we get, the more questions pop up.”

Dr. Grundfast concludes, “So many people have spent so much time looking at this from so many points of view, otolaryngologists now have the data they need. I have total confidence in the ability of otolaryngologists to make good decisions on behalf of their patients.”

©2006 The Triological Society