Ear tube insertion

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Tympanic membrane

Ear tube insertion - series

Overview

Recovery

Risks

Ear tube insertion

Alternative Names:

Myringotomy; Tympanostomy; Ear tubes surgery

Expectations after surgery:

Most parents report fewer ear infections, easier clearance when infections do occur, and less worrying about whether their children have ear infections. In one study, more than 90 percent of parents were satisfied overall with the results.

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

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.

Review Date: 9/9/2005
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by Kevin Fung, M.D., FRCS(C), Department of Otolaryngology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (10/24/2004).

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