What Are Ear Tubes?
Ear tubes are very small, hollow cylinders placed in the eardrum to help drain fluid and allow air into the middle ear (the space behind the eardrum).
They are most commonly used in children but can also be used in adults.
Why Are Ear Tubes Needed?
Ear tubes may be recommended for ongoing ear problems such as:
- Frequent ear infections
- Fluid trapped behind the eardrum (middle ear fluid)
- Hearing difficulties due to fluid
- Speech or developmental delays related to hearing issues
- Ear pressure or fullness
When fluid does not clear on its own, it can affect hearing and increase the risk of infections.
What Is Ear Tube Surgery?
The procedure to place ear tubes is called a myringotomy with tube placement. It is a very common and safe procedure.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- In children, the procedure is usually done under general anesthesia
- In some adults, it can be performed in the office using local anesthesia
- A small opening is made in the eardrum
- Fluid behind the eardrum is gently removed
- A small tube is inserted to keep the opening open
There are no external incisions or stitches.
The procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes.
What to Expect After Surgery
- Most patients go home the same day
- Little to no pain is expected
- Hearing often improves quickly after fluid removal
- Mild ear drainage may occur for a few days
- Most children return to normal activities within 24 hours
How Long Do Tubes Stay In?
- Tubes typically remain in place for 6–18 months
- They usually fall out on their own as the eardrum heals
- Your doctor will monitor them during follow-up visits
Benefits of Ear Tubes
Many patients experience:
- Fewer ear infections
- Improved hearing
- Better speech and development in children
- Relief from ear pressure
Risks
Ear tube placement is very safe, but possible risks include:
- Persistent ear drainage
- Tubes falling out too early or remaining too long
- Small hole in the eardrum after tube removal (rare)
- Scarring of the eardrum (typically does not affect hearing)
Postoperative Care
Pain Management
Most children return to normal within hours and have minimal pain.
If needed, give:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Motrin)
Follow dosing instructions based on your child’s age.
Diet
- Nausea or vomiting may occur shortly after surgery
- Start with cool, clear liquids
- Gradually return to a normal diet as tolerated
Ear Drainage
- Drainage may occur for 2–3 days after surgery
- It may appear clear, pink, yellow, green, or slightly bloody
- Use prescribed ear drops as directed
- Mild stinging may occur; discontinue if discomfort is significant
Water Exposure
- Keep ears dry for the first 24 hours
- After that, regular bathing and swimming in treated water are acceptable
- Ear plugs are not routinely required
Ear plugs are recommended:
- For lake or pond swimming
- For diving deeper than 6 feet
- If recurrent drainage occurs after water exposure
Ear Infections After Tubes
Ear tubes reduce infections but do not eliminate them entirely.
Contact your doctor if your child develops:
- Ear pain
- Fullness or pressure
- Hearing problems
- Drainage or bleeding (beyond the immediate postoperative period)
To reduce infection risk:
- Feed infants in an upright position
- Avoid bottle use in bed
- Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke
Tube Removal
- Tubes usually fall out on their own within 6-18 months
- Surgical removal is rarely needed
- Approximately 80% of children do not require a second set
Follow-Up
- Follow-up visit: 2–3 weeks after surgery
- This appointment should have already been scheduled by the surgery coordinator
- A hearing test (audiogram) is typically performed at this visit
If unsure about your appointment, contact the surgery coordinator.
When to Call the Doctor
Contact the office if:
- Fever exceeds 102°F (39°C) and does not respond to medication
- Fever beyond the first 24 hours is not usually due to surgery and may be a coincident viral infection
- Signs of dehydration develop
- Pain is not controlled with medication
- Ear drainage persists longer than 3 days
Note: Fever or vomiting occurring more than 24 hours after surgery is usually unrelated to the procedure and may require evaluation by your pediatrician.
Emergency Room
If you need to go to the Emergency Room, please use the following guidelines:
- Patients age 16 and older: Centennial Medical Center Frisco
- Patients under 16: Children’s Medical Center Plano
