Integral cutting instrument and myringotomy tube

摘要

A myringotomy tube with a axial lumen is constructed with an integral cutting tang extending axially from the flange of the grommet for incising the tympanic membrane without the necessity of a scalpel. A disposable inserter is optionally included that frictionally fits the myringotomy tube to the inserter and includes a handle with an ejector mechanism for releasing the myringotomy tube after it is implanted. The handle is injection molded and inexpensive to fabricate so that the inserter is disposable. The method of construction includes the sequence of assembly to allow the grommet to be releasably affixed to the inserter. The surgical method of use of the inserter and grommet allows the grommet to be implanted in a single step eliminating the necessity of a separate incision.