A SIMPLE EFFECTIVE teaching model for myringotomy can be constructed in about 15 minutes, using a butcher knife, a polystyrene ball, plastic tape, and a pen (Figure). First, a wedge is cut from the sphere to a depth of the average ear canal. A hole is made through the wedge to approximate the external canal. Then, with the wedge replaced, this hole is continued into the sphere to create a "middle ear" cavity. The tympanic membrane is created—normal or abnormal landmarks—on a piece of plastic tape, and this is pasted over the cavity so that with the wedge in place the
Construction of myringotomy model. Top left, Cut a wedge from the polystyrene ball. Top center, Create an ear canal and tympanum by forcing a speculum through the wedge and into the ball. Top right, Draw "drum" can be seen through the "ear canal." Embellishments with facial features, and with