A tympanostomy tube is a tiny tube that is placed through a small opening in the ear drum (tympanic membrane). The tube allows air to enter the middle ear space and any fluid in the middle ear space to drain out.

There are two main reasons for a child to have tympanostomy tubes placed:

Some children require tubes because they have frequent ear infections, which can be very painful and disruptive to daily life and development. Tube placement will increase the quality of life for both the child and the family, as it reduces the number of ear infections and their associated symptoms.

Some children require tubes because they have persistent fluid in the middle ear spaces (behind the eardrum) for three months or more. The fluid can cause a temporary hearing loss as a result of the fluid buildup in the middle ear. It may also affect speech and language development.

Tympanostomy tubes generally remain in place for six months to a year. They will usually fall out on their own, and when they do, the tubes may or may not be visible.

The surgery is performed in the Pediatric Operating Room at Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and it takes approximately 10 minutes. Children undergoing the procedure usually receive anesthesia via a mask instead of intravenously. Once the tubes are placed, the child will go to the pediatric Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Parents or guardians can be with the child at this time. It is normal for children to be disoriented and upset as they come out of the anesthesia. Within an hour or so, most children will be back to themselves and ready to go home.

Doctors will prescribe ear drops for parents or guardians to place into their child’s ears, four drops in each ear, twice a day, for three days.

As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with the placement of tympanostomy tubes.

The child will receive general anesthesia for the procedure. There is a very small risk of a complication occurring as the result of anesthesia. However, every precaution is taken to ensure the safety of the child.

There is a one percent chance of a small hole remaining in the ear drum when the tube falls out. If this were to occur, the hole can be patched.

Some children will continue to get ear infections after the tubes have been placed. However, they are less common and do not result in as much pain and discomfort. When an ear infection does occur, the fluid will drain out through the tube.

Children with tubes should be seen by a doctor on a regular basis. Most ear infections will be treated with ear drops instead of oral antibiotics when the tubes are in place and functioning.

There is no special care required once the tympanostomy tubes are in place. Bathing and swimming is permitted in most cases without any restrictions.

For a physician referral, click here or call (203) 688-2000 or toll free (888) 700-6543. Visit Connecticut Pediatric Otolaryngology for more information.

Last revised: Jan. 11, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.