Chronic otitis media (middle ear infection) is an acute bacterial infection, which often blocks your ear drums. It is a bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear space, which also affects the mastoid bone (on the back side of the ear). Mastoid bone contains air holes which drain out the middle year. An infection can commonly occur in cold weather conditions, or if water enters the middle year. Any other ear infection can also cause this infection. It is a painful condition, as it causes swelling and fluid accumulation during the time of infection. In addition, any risk of mastoid bone infection can lead to serious health disorders such as skull infection, or in severe cases, pus in the brain.

Chronic otitis media is frequently treated with myringotomy and tube placement (Grommet Insertion). This is indicated for frequent acute episodes, chronic effusions persisting beyond 3 months, and those associated with significant conductive hearing loss. The purpose of this procedure is to remove the effusion and provide a route for middle ear ventilation. Tympanic membrane perforation during acute otitis media frequently results in resolution of severe pain and provides for drainage of purulent fluid and middle ear ventilation. These perforations will heal spontaneously after the infection has resolved in the majority of cases.