Illustrates the network meta-analysis combining direct and indirect evidence for the effectiveness of various interventions at 1 to 3 months, compared with watchful waiting. Mean hearing levels improved (decreased) by average of 9.1 dB (95% credible interval: −14 to −3.4) following Tympanostomy tubes, and by 10 dB (95% credible interval: −19.0 to −1.9) following Tympanostomy tubes with adenoidectomy. Credible intervals for these effects exclude zero. The decrease in mean hearing levels for Myringotomy compared to watchful waiting was 2.3 dB (95% credible interval −9.2 to 3.9). The credible intervals for comparisons between watchful waiting and myringotomy alone, myringotomy with adenoidectomy, and oral antibiotic prophylaxis were wide and include zero.

Figure FEarly (1 to 3 months) decrease (improvement) in mean hearing thresholds compared with watchful waiting

TT= tympanostomy tubes; CrI=Credible Interval

From: Executive Summary

Cover of Tympanostomy Tubes in Children With Otitis Media
Tympanostomy Tubes in Children With Otitis Media [Internet].
Comparative Effectiveness Reviews, No. 185.
Steele D, Adam GP, Di M, et al.
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