Time For Tubes
Tympanostomy, or ear tube surgery, is a procedure where an ear tube is placed into the eardrum. This procedure is usually performed in children with repetitive ear infections. The surgery is also done in adults with barotrauma, a condition caused by air pressure changes. After ear tube placement, following the doctor’s instructions is important for a quick and complete recovery.
Reasons for tympanostomy
Some doctors recommend ear tube surgery to lower the occurrence of ear infections. Placing ear tubes also permits any excess fluid to drain out in cases of otitis media effusion. Severe or repetitive ear infections or effusion can lead to hearing loss or speech issues, so treatment is essential.
Preparing for surgery
Ear tube placement is a short procedure that usually takes about 15 minutes. Once the patient is put under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision in the eardrum. After the incision is made, any trapped fluid in the ear is removed, and the area is cleaned. The ear tube is then placed into the eardrum so that fluid can drain out more effectively. Most people require tubes in both ears.
Heading home
Ear tube surgery is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can go home on the same day. However, before getting discharged, the patient is observed in the recovery room to monitor for side effects such as nausea or weakness. Once home, the patient should be under the supervision of a family member or friend for the first day. Seeing clear yellowish discharge or a little blood in the ears 1-2 days after surgery is normal.
Post-operative precautions
Following the doctor’s recovery instructions is necessary to achieve an optimal result. The doctor will prescribe pain medications and antibiotics to treat mild ear pain and prevent infections. Taking medications as prescribed can prevent complications from occurring. Most people can return to normal activities the next day. The doctor may recommend wearing earplugs during activities such as showering and swimming. Follow-up appointments with the doctor will be scheduled to monitor the ear tubes.
Pop goes the tube
As the ear heals, the hole made by the tube will naturally close, and the tubes will painlessly pop out. For most patients, the ear tubes will fall out about 9-18 months after the procedure. Although rare, if the ear tube does not fall out within 2 years of the original procedure, removal surgery is needed.
Get better faster
Once the ear tube placement surgery is complete, the doctor will provide post-operative precautions to follow. Taking medications on time, using earplugs around water, and attending scheduled follow-up appointments can ensure a smooth recovery and healthy ears.
Recent Posts
Will I Need Assistance At Home Following Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Carpal tunnel can be debilitating and sometimes requires surgery. Most people need some assistance at home during recovery.
Post-Operative Precautions Following Ear Tube Placement
Post-operative precautions after ear tube surgery are important. Taking medications and attending follow-up visits can help with recovery.
The Problems A Deviated Septum Can Cause: When To Schedule Your Septoplasty
A deviated septum occurs when the bony structure separating the nostrils is crooked. Problems can often be helped by septoplasty.
Being Pain Free: Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections For Relief
Chronic back or neck pain can benefit from transforaminal epidural steroid injections. The quick procedure can provide pain-free relief.
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
