The results of operative treatment of secretory otitis media in 32 children at the II Department of Laryngology of the Silesian Medical Academy in Zabrze are presented. Ventilation tubes made from a plastic called "tarflen", for temporary tympanic cavity drainage and middle ear ventilation were used. Satisfactory results confirmed by otomicroscopic, audiometric and tympanometric examinations were obtained. It is pointed out that surgical treatment is necessary in chronic cases. The possibility of serious complications in case of desistance from this kind of treatment are indicated. The quality of Polish ventilation tubes, making treatment successful, in emphasized. The problem of difficulties in diagnosing secretory otitis media is also presented.