University of Michigan Health System

CONSULT REQUEST GUIDELINES Print

Otitis Media with Effusion

Suggested Pre-Referral Evaluation and Management Guidelines

1)	Children not at risk of speech and language problems may be managed expectantly for 3 months with frequent assessment of middle ear status. A hearing test is recommended as a first step, as fluctuating hearing loss secondary to intermittent middle ear effusions may also be educationally significant. Children who are in school with documented hearing should be seen within 6 weeks.
2)	Laterality and duration of effusion should be documented.

Suggested Additional Test/Management Prior to Specialty Visit

1)	Hearing should be tested for effusion persisting greater than 2 months or if concern of significant hearing loss or language difficulties.
2)	Early referral for patients at risk of speech and language developmental delay and those with pre-existing hearing loss.
3)	Patients will be offered an audiology appointment coordinated with clinic visit, but urgent requests may necessitate two separate appointments.
4)	Bring records of newborn hearing screening or outside audiology screening.

Patient Education/Information (includes preps)

Appointment Timeframe

Next Available Appointment

How to Get Results to Consultant

UMHS Patients: See Careweb.
External Patients: Hand carry results including hard copies or diskette of any imaging studies to visit.

Clinic Contact Information

Physicians: 800-362-9555
Patients: 734-936-5730

Clinic Location Sites

UM Consulting Physician