701 Outcomes for Paediatric Patients Awaiting Bilateral Myringotomy and Ventilation Tube Insertion for Otitis Media with Effusion Listed Prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Aim The decline in the incidence of otitis media with effusion (OME) during the COVID-19 pandemic has become apparent. This review investigates the outcomes for children with OME awaiting bilateral myringotomy and ventilation tube (BMT) who were referred prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Method All patients were reviewed in otolaryngology clinics between 1st February and 30th April 2021. Patients included were referred due to hearing, vestibular or developmental disorders prior to the first COVID-19 lockdown on 23rd March 2020. Analysis of routine consultation and audiological assessment was completed from records. Results There were a total of 48 patients awaiting BMT. The average age was 6.8 years, with a male to female ratio of 1.38:1. Most initial referrals (54.2%) were due to hearing loss, followed by recurrent ear infections (33.3%). Forty-four patients were diagnosed with OME. Of those, only 9% remained awaiting BMT. All others were removed from the waiting list. One patient remained listed for an adenotonsillectomy, 30 were discharged, and nine required follow-up appointments. Conclusion Our review demonstrates a significant reduction of BMT for OME following COVID-19. Further research on public health measures and changes in clinical practice during the 2020 lockdown would clarify the impact on OME.