Ear tube insertion is a procedure to drain fluid that has built up behind a child’s eardrums. The purpose of the procedure is to restore the normal functioning of the ear.

While the child is under general anesthesia, a small incision is made in the eardrum. The fluid is suctioned out. A small tube will be inserted through the eardrum incision. The tube allows air to flow in, and fluid to continuously flow out, of the middle ear.

The incision heals on its own, without the need for sutures. The hole closes and the ear tubes usually fall out naturally, after an average of 14 months or so.

The most common reason for performing this surgery is when a child has had fluid build-up behind the eardrum for 4 months or longer, plus has hearing loss or other risk for developmental problems.

If there is a compelling reason, some children may be candidates for ear tube surgery regardless of how long the fluid has been present or their hearing ability.

Ear tube insertion is sometimes used for:

• Acute ear infections
• Patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Patients with a complication resulting from a severe ear infection, such as mastoiditis, brain infection, meningitis, or facial nerve paralysis
• Barotrauma from flying or deep sea diving

The risks for any anesthesia are:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

The risks for any surgery are:

• Bleeding
• Infection

Additional risks include scarring of the eardrum and drainage from the ear. These complications are usually temporary or do not cause problems in children. Your doctor can explain these complications in more detail.

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.

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.