Ear Tube Procedures

Ear tube surgery. This article contains information regarding ear tube procedures and when they should be considered. We will look at the possible hazards and dangers of the surgery as well as the benefits. Though research prior to any operation is wise it also recommended that you consult your doctor.

Why are Ear Tubes Used?

Typically you will find that 1 out of 10 children have had Ear tubes at some point. That is not say that the procedure is limited to children alone. Ear tubes may be considered for anyone that has an ear infection that is resistant to medications and either does not go away or comes often. Some times ear tubes are used because the ear has pressure that cannot escape which causes discomfort and leads to fluids accumulating making it hard to hear.

This procedure is called a Myringotomy and consist of a small incision to the eardrum in order to remove the build of fluid and other particles. A small tube (known medically as a tympanostomy) is then placed in the eardrum to allow for a release in pressure and to keep air circulating in the middle ear to dry and kill any infections. Ear tubes may remain in the ear for some time (typically anywhere from six months to a few years, your surgeon will explain in more detail).

As the ear heals the tubes will be naturally expelled from the eardrum and can be taken out of the middle ear without any problem. Many people dont even notice when the tubes come out as they simply fall straight out of the ear.

Other less frequent circumstance that may require ear tubes are: if the ear drum or Eustachian tubes did not properly form, some cases of cleft plate and if the ear has sustained injury from extreme changes in pressure.

The Risks that are Faced with Ear Tubes:

Despite the fact that there have been several advancements to the field there is still a 50% chance that there will be a complication from the surgery.

Complications from Ear tubes include: - Pressure and fluids are released, however the infection remains. - The eardrum may become slightly thicker over a period of time or scared which may have a negative impact on hearing (this is uncommon and even when it does occur the chances of it affecting hearing are slight). - There are times when the eardrum does not heal, even after the tubes have come out. - A condition known as chronic ear drainage may develop. - Of course there is the possibility that the surgery will fail and other more aggressive surgery will be needed. ” Lastly there is the chance that the operation may cause hearing loss.

Ear tubes are used as a last resort and only after aggressive and persistent infections that do not respond treatment. Consult your family doctor and get a recommendation too see a specialist.

Tagged with: blocked ears • ear surgery • ear tube • ear tube surgery • ear tubes • ears • health • Health & Fitness • hearing • myringotomy • otoplasty

Filed under: Health & Fitness

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