Ear Tubes (Myringotomy)
What are Ear Tubes?
Children who suffer from repeat ear infections or fluid in the ear may benefit from ear tubes. Ear tubes are plastic inserts that are surgically placed in the eardrum. They allow for the following:
- Air to enter the middle ear
- Allow fluid out of the ear
- Prevent future buildup of fluid and restore hearing
Most patients experience a significant reduction in the number of ear infections from this treatment, as well as relief from hearing loss and associated symptoms.
What Causes Ear Infections?
Ear infections, also known as otitis media, are a common childhood condition that involves a buildup of excess fluid within the ear. This condition causes the following:
- Pain
- Hearing loss
- Fever
- Irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
It is most common in children between the ages of four months and five years. While most cases go away on their own within a few days, some children may develop recurring ear infections that do not respond to treatment.
Who are the Ideal Candidates for Ear Tubes?
We consider ear tubes surgery when a child has fluid in both ears for more than 3 months or has repeated ear infections. It may also be performed for patients with evidence of hearing loss or a speech delay, or for ear infections caused by structural damage to the ear.
Your child’s doctor will decide whether or not to recommend surgery based on a thorough evaluation of each patient’s individual condition, age and overall health. The tubes are usually effective in preventing ear infection and the buildup of pressure and fluid, but these conditions can return after the tubes are gone.
“Great experience! Got me an appointment right away and saw a doctor within minutes of arriving. Highly impressed by service and positive attitudes.” – C.B.
Ear Tube Surgery
Ear tube surgery, known as a myringotomy, involves a tiny incision in the eardrum. Your physician will drain any fluid in the ear through the hole before the inserting the tube. The ear tube helps keep the hole open so that ongoing drainage can occur, reducing the risk of ear infections. This surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia and only takes 10-15 minutes.
After surgery, patients will be monitored and then discharged home once anesthesia wears off. It is important to keep the ears clean and dry after surgery in order to reduce the risk of infection. Your doctor will provide specific post-surgical instructions to help the ear heal quickly and efficiently.
What is the Recovery from Myringotomy Surgery?
Hearing loss and other symptoms should be relieved immediately after surgery. Most children can return to school and other activities the next day, although special precautions will be needed for swimming or bathing. Drainage from the ears may be visible for up to a week after surgery, and may appear as clear, green or yellow crusted material or liquid.
What Results Can I Expect from Ear Tube Surgery
After surgery, patients usually see a significant decrease in ear infections, as well as improved hearing, speech and sleep patterns, as these factors can be disturbed by a painful ear infection. Some patients may still get an occasional ear infection after surgery, which is considered normal.
“We had a wonderful experience with this office. This was our second visit in a year and both times we had great service. I would highly recommend!” – D.B.
Do ear tubes need to be removed?
In most cases, ear tubes stay in place for six to 12 months, before they fall out on their own. Sometimes, the tubes do not fall out on their own and may need to be surgically removed, which involves a simple outpatient procedure.
Are There Risks to Having Ear Tubes?
Ear tubes are a safe and effective treatment for recurring ear infections and carry only a low risk of complications. Some of these may include infection, tearing of the eardrum, bleeding or persistent drainage of fluid. These complications are considered rare and can be further reduced by choosing an experienced doctor to perform your procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
If you believe you or your child may benefit from ear tube surgery, call today! Contact our office at 972.984.1050 to schedule a consultation at one of our locations.
