Abstract: An otological drain tube which is capable of being implanted in the ear drum to vent the differential pressure that can build up across the ear drum as the result of blocked eustachian tubes, a buildup of internal liquid pressure in the inner ear due to illness, or a change in atmospheric pressure. The otological tube comprising: a cap-plug, a central body, an end cap. And a means for permanently securing the elements together. The assembly of these elements creates a plurality of lumens of a requisite cross sectional area within the otological drain tube body. The primary object of the invention is to produce an otological drain tube which is extremely effective and economical to produce.

Abstract: A drain tube for implanting in an ear drum is formed having a center body with a circular flange on each end with a cover member over each flange forming a chamber therewith. The cover members have openings therein and the center body has drain holes therethrough having a high L/D ratio to permit proper drain flow from an ear and prevent undesirable flow into an ear. A tab is used for insertion and a method of forming the drain holes is set forth wherein grooves are placed in the surface of a large opening and the grooves closed to form drain holes by a plug placed in the large opening.

Abstract: A composite ventilation tube is disclosed which is specifically useful for ventilating the middle ear. The tube assembly includes an outer tube formed of inert, slightly flexible material, such as Teflon or polyethylene, which includes an elongated thin-walled tubular section having a central bore and a plurality of axially spaced, angularly staggered transverse openings. A flange is formed at one end of the tube, the plane of the flange being disposed at an acute angle relative to the axis of the tube with at least one portion of the flange terminating closely adjacent to the tubular wall. A cylindrical piston fits within the tube and includes a slightly enlarged head engaging the open, outer end of the tube. The piston is formed of porous polyethylene having pores of the order of 20 to 50 microns.