Treatment Algorithm for Otitis Media with Effusion in Children

A luncheon seminar entitled “Treatment strategy for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children” was held at the 70th Annual Meeting of Practica Oto-Rhino-Laryngologica in Nagasaki in June 2008. The seminar consisted of one moderator, two speakers and approximately 100 participants. The moderator and the speakers presented some typical cases of OME and asked clinical questions regarding the treatment of OME in children. Each question had four or five answers, which were prepared beforehand. The participants chose one answer among them using an analyzer keypad. The number of participants choosing a specific answer was immediately analyzed and the results were shown. We selected the treatment strategy that was supported by the majority of participants as the first-line treatment, and proceeded to the next question. Finally, the treatment algorithm for OME was established by consensus. Each treatment or management strategy was compatible with evidence-based treatment of OME in children. Therefore, we would like to propose this algorithm as a medical guideline for the treatment of OME in children.