Paracentesis

Paracentesis is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a puncture is made in the tympanic membrane to remove exudate, pus, or blood from the middle ear. The procedure is performed in acute and chronic inflammatory ear diseases accompanied by fluid accumulation, severe pain, and hearing loss.

When is paracentesis required?

• In acute purulent otitis media when conservative treatment is ineffective.
• In otitis media with effusion, when fluid accumulates in the middle ear and causes hearing impairment.
• In ear barotrauma accompanied by blood accumulation behind the tympanic membrane.
• In cases of severe ear pain, swelling, hearing loss, and increased pressure on the tympanic membrane.
• When there are signs of intracranial complications associated with middle ear infection.

How is paracentesis performed?

1. Preparation – the patient undergoes otoscopy and audiometry to assess the condition of the tympanic membrane.
2. Anesthesia – local anesthesia is usually applied; in children, general anesthesia may be used.
3. Tympanic membrane puncture – the physician makes a small incision using a special needle to allow fluid drainage.
4. Removal of exudate – pus or fluid is evacuated from the middle ear cavity using sterile instruments or suction.
5. Completion of the procedure – anti-inflammatory or antiseptic ear drops are administered, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Advantages of paracentesis in Belarus

• Rapid relief of pain and pressure in the ear.
• Prevention of spontaneous tympanic membrane rupture, reducing the risk of complications.
• Faster recovery due to improved ventilation of the middle ear.
• Reduced likelihood of chronic ear disease development.

Recovery after the procedure

• Avoid water entering the ear until complete healing of the tympanic membrane.
• Use of antiseptic ear drops as prescribed by the physician.
• Follow-up examination by an ENT specialist a few days after the procedure.
• Avoidance of significant pressure changes (air travel, deep diving).

The procedure is performed in modern ENT clinics equipped with high-precision instruments, allowing it to be carried out painlessly and with minimal risk. Endoscopic guidance is often used to ensure safety and effectiveness.