Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes, ventilation tubes, pressure equalization tubes) are tiny cylinders, usually made of plastic or metal, that are surgically inserted into the eardrum. An ear tube creates an airway that ventilates the middle ear and prevents the accumulation of fluids behind the eardrum.

Ear tubes are often recommended for children who have persistent fluid buildup behind the eardrum, especially if the condition causes hearing loss and affects speech development. Your child’s doctor may also recommend ear tubes if your child gets frequent ear infections.

Most ear tubes fall out within six to 12 months, and the holes heal shut on their own. Some tubes need to be removed, and some holes may need to be closed surgically.

How to prepare:

You’ll receive instructions from the hospital on how to prepare your child for surgery to place ear tubes.
Information to provide may include:

All medications your child takes regularly
Your child’s history or family history of adverse reactions to anesthetics
Known allergy or other negative reactions to medications, such as antibiotics

Questions to ask your doctor or the hospital staff:

When does my child need to start fasting?
What drugs can he or she take before surgery?
When should we arrive at the hospital?
Where do we need to check in?
What is the expected recovery time?
How will the anesthetic be administered — with a face mask, injection or intravenous (IV) line?

Tips for helping your child prepare include:

Start talking about the hospital visit a few days before the procedure.
Explain that the procedure will help make his or her ears feel better or make it easier to hear.
Explain that a special medicine will help him or her sleep during the surgery.
Let your child pick out a favorite comfort toy, such as a blanket or stuffed animal, that you can take to the hospital.

Results:
Ear tubes help restore ventilation and drainage of the ear. Ear tube placement often results in:

Reduced risk of ear infections
Restored or improved hearing
Improved speech
Improved behavior and sleep problems related to frequent or persistent ear infections

Even with ear tubes, your child may still get an occasional ear infection.

Usually, ear tubes stay in the eardrum for six to 12 months and then fall out on their own. Sometimes, a tube doesn’t fall out and needs to be surgically removed. In some cases, the ear tube falls out too soon, and another needs to be put in.

Article by
Fortis Healthcare

Explain that you will be there during the procedure.