Ear tube insertion

Definition

Ear tube insertion is a procedure to drain fluid that has built up behind a child's eardrums. The purpose of the procedure is to restore the normal functioning of the ear.

Alternative Names

Myringotomy; Tympanostomy; Ear tubes surgery

Indications

The most common reason for performing this surgery is when fluid continues to build up behind a child's eardrum for 4 months or longer, and there is hearing loss or the risk for developmental problems.

If there is a compelling reason, some children may be candidates for ear tube surgery regardless of how long the fluid has been present or their hearing ability.

Ear tube insertion is sometimes used for:

  • Acute ear infections
  • Patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy
  • Those who have had a complication resulting from a severe ear infection, such as mastoiditis, brain infection, meningitis, or facial nerve paralysis
  • Barotrauma from flying or deep sea diving

Convalescence

Patients usually leave the hospital the same day. Swimming is prohibited unless special earplugs are worn. Use of a cap while under a shower is recommended for several days or weeks.

Expectations after surgery

After this procedure, most parents report fewer ear infections, faster recovery from infections, and less worrying about whether their children have ear infections.

If ear infections return after the first tubes fall out, the procedure can be repeated with another set of ear tubes.

Risks

The risks for any anesthesia are:

  • Reactions to medications
  • Problems breathing

The risks for any surgery are:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection

Additional risks include scarring of the eardrum and drainage from the ear. These complications are usually temporary or do not cause problems in children. Your doctor can explain these complications in more detail.

Tympanic membrane
Tympanic membrane
Ear tube insertion - series
Ear tube insertion - series
Review Date: 7/25/2007
Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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