Local anesthesia of the ear by iontophoresis is an old technique that has been revived by Comeau et al (1973). Through a series of animal and human studies, Comeau et al made a comment that the use of iontophoresis with lidocaine to produce local anesthesia in the ear has proven to be safe, effective and easy. In addition, a number of animal experiments were performed in order to further test the cochlear and vestibular toxic effects of the procedure by others, and in 1975, Echols et al recommended the technique of iontophoretic anesthesia for office myringotomy and tube insertion as reintroduced by Comeau et al as a painless and safe method. Authors have experienced this technique using iontophoretic anesthetizer (Model 6100 Life-Tech Instruments, Inc.) for purpose of myringotomy or tube insertion on 20 ears of serous effusion of the middle ear, and obtained following results. 1) Iontophoresis of lidocaine in the external ear canal produced anesthesia of the tympanic membrane. The depth of anesthesia was sufficient as to permit the execution of painless myringotomies and tube insertions. 2) Local anesthesia of the external auditory canal wall by iontophoresis of lidocaine was not so effective as in tympanic membrane. 3) We feel confident that lidocaine has no major problems or complications up to levels of 4% concentration. 4) Iontophoretic anesthesia was particularly useful and convenient anesthetic technique for myringotomy and tube insertion in children.