Myringotomy and tympanostomy, in parallel with the general distinction between an -otomy (cutting) and an -ostomy (creating a stoma with some degree of permanence or semipermanence). In this distinction, only a tympanostomy involves tympanostomy tubes and creates a semipermanent stoma. This distinction in usage is not always made. The word "tympanocentesis" specifies that centesis (aspiration for sampling) is being done. Etymologically, "myringotomy" ("myringo-", from Latin "myringa" "eardrum", + "-tomy") and "tympanotomy" ("tympano-" + "-tomy") both mean "eardrum cutting", and "tympanostomy" ("tympano-" + "-stomy" means "making an eardrum stoma". In 1649, Jean Riolan the Younger accidentally pierced a patient's ear drum while
Incision and drainage Incision and drainage Incision and drainage and clinical lancing are minor surgical procedures to release pus or pressure built up under the skin, such as from an abscess, boil, or infected paranasal sinus. It is performed by treating the area with an antiseptic, such as iodine-based solution, and then making a small incision to puncture the skin using a sterile instrument such as a sharp needle, a pointed scalpel or a lancet. This allows the pus fluid to escape by draining out through the incision. Good medical practice for large abdominal abscesses requires insertion of a drainage tube, preceded by