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Alternative names Return to top
Myringotomy; Tympanostomy; Ear tubes surgeryDefinition Return to top
Ear tube insertion is a surgical procedure to drain fluid and place tubes in the eardrums.Description Return to top
While the patient is under general anesthesia, a small incision is made in the eardrum and the accumulated fluid is suctioned out. A small tube may be inserted through the eardrum incision to allow fluid to continuously flow out and air to enter and dry out the middle ear.
Because the incision heals without sutures, the hole closes and the ear tubes fall out naturally after a few months.
Indications Return to top
Ear tube insertion may be recommended for the foillowing:
Symptoms indicasting the need for tubes may include the following:
Risks Return to top
Risks for any anesthesia are:
Risks for any surgery are:
Additional risks include scarring of the eardrum (which can cause hearing loss).
Expectations after surgery Return to top
Ear tube insertion relieves pain and restores hearing. The frequency and severity of middle ear infections is significantly reduced. If ear infections recur and the tubes are nonfunctional, the operation can be repeated and another set of ear tubes can be inserted.Convalescence Return to top
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. Update Date: 2/5/2003 Updated by: Edward Chang, MD, DDS, Facial Reconstructive Surgical and Medical Center, Palo Alto California. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |