An otological vent tube is supported on an apparatus that performs a myringotomy and substantially simultaneously positions the vent tube in the resulting myringotomy incision. The vent tube has proximal and distal ends and includes a central lumen that extends the full length of the tube. In all embodiments of the invention the distal end includes a distal flange in the form of a truncated cone. In some embodiments a proximal flange is provided at the proximal end, and in other embodiments the proximal flange is eliminated. The myringotomy and positioning apparatus includes an immovable outer hollow sleeve and an axially displaceable inner shaft. The distal end of the shaft is conical in form and supports the vent tube such that the distal conical end of the shaft member forms a substantial continuation of the truncated conical surface of the vent tube distal flange. The substantially continuous conical surfaces of the vent tube distal flange and the distal end of the shaft facilitates incising the tympanic membrane and insertion of the distal vent flange through the incision in a single continuous movement to install the vent tube in the membrane. The shaft is withdrawn from the vent tube while the vent tube is retained in the installed position in the tympanic membrane. The apparatus can then be removed from the outer ear passage.
