Ear Tubes

If your little one is having trouble with their ears, ear tubes may be an option to help them feel better.

Types of Ear Tubes at Cape Fear Valley Health

Ear tubes are inserted to relieve pressure and drain excess fluid in children with frequent ear infections or fluid buildup. These devices enhance hearing abilities, decrease the need for antibiotics and safeguard against harm to the eardrum.

Ear tubes come in different materials and may have a coating to prevent infection. There are two types:

• Short-term tubes are smaller and typically remain in place for around six months to a year before they naturally dislodge.
• Long-term tubes are larger and have flanges to ensure they stay in place for an extended period. Although they may dislodge on their own, a doctor may need to extract them.

Our Approach to Ear Tubes

How are ear tubes inserted?

Ear tubes are inserted through an outpatient surgical procedure called a myringotomy. During this procedure, an experienced surgeon creates a small incision in the eardrum to facilitate the insertion of ear tubes, ensuring that there is a clear path for air to pass through the middle ear, preventing any issues that may arise from fluid buildup or pressure imbalances.

What to expect after surgery

Patients are observed in recovery before being discharged within one to two hours. Anesthesia may cause temporary grogginess, irritability or nausea, but surgery resolves middle ear fluid-induced hearing loss.

• The doctor will give instructions on when to seek help, schedule follow-ups and may prescribe ear drops.
• A hearing test might be done after ear tube surgery to check for improvement if hearing loss was noted prior to tube placement.
• To prevent bacteria from entering the middle ear, use ear plugs or water-tight devices during water activities. However, new studies indicate that safeguarding the ear may not be required.
• It is recommended that parents discuss ear protection with their child’s doctor following surgery.