Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube

The ear infection is regular among children. Nearly all children have experienced at least one case of an ear problem at the age of five years. Ear infections can be caused by viruses or bacteria-related. The viral infections heal on their own time, while the bacterial ones can be treated by taking antibiotics. Learn more about Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube.

In Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube article, you will also find types of ear tubes for adults, what to expect after ear tube surgery in adults, what do ear tubes look like, and ear tubes in adults pros and cons.

However, there are times when ear infections can prove to be extremely problematic, especially when they are a persistent issue. In the end, many children can suffer from problems such as hearing loss, behavior issues, speech disorders, and infrequent attendance and school performance. In these cases, the ENT (ear nose, throat) specialist might suggest the placement of the tympanostomy tube.

What is a Tympanostomy Tube?

A tympanostomy tube is also known as a grommet or ear tube is a tiny, cylindrical tube that passes within your eardrum in order to allow air to flow into the middle ear. Other terms for a Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube, include myringotomy tube, ventilation tubes as well as pressure equalization (PE) tubes.

Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube. Tympanostomy tubes can be classified into two types: short-term as well as long-term tubes. The short-term tubes are in the ear for 6 to 18 months, before they disappear by themselves, while the long-term tubes remain in place for a longer period of time and are secured with flanges. The tubes are bigger and can fall off on themselves, but they may require removal by a specialist in ENT.

Who can be a candidate for a Tympanostomy tube?

Any person who has a history of frequent problems with their ears or who suffers from hearing loss due to a buildup of fluid inside the middle ear (otitis media with effusion) are the most likely people who require a Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube. These types of conditions are more common in children, but they may also be present in adults and teenagers.

Children have a narrow, horizontal eustachian tube, which allows germs to reach the middle ear quite easily, which makes the ear infections they suffer from common. Children who have Down syndrome or abnormalities of the eardrum, the eustachian tube, or cleft palate as well as middle-ear injuries due to a decrease in air pressure. This is typically observed in those who participate in scuba diving or flying. The cause of their ear trauma is linked to changes in altitude.

Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube surgical insertion is the most commonly performed childhood procedure that is done under anesthesia.

What Tube is to be Inserted?

This is a surgical outpatient procedure that is performed under anesthesia with a surgical microscope. This procedure is referred to as myringotomy. With a small scalpel, small incisions are made into the eardrum and the fluid in the eardrum gets sucked out.

The tympanostomy tube or Middle Ear Infection Tympanostomy Tube, will then be placed through the hole. If a tympanostomy tube was not placed the wound will heal and then close after several days. The ear tube ensures that the incision stays open and air can be able to enter through the middle of the ear. The procedure is around 15 minutes. The patient is able to go home after being in the recovery area for an hour or so.

After the procedure, it is possible that you might experience little or no discomfort, irritation, or nausea for a brief period of duration. The ENT surgeon you consult with will inform you regarding your post-operative symptoms and when your next appointment is scheduled, and when you should seek help.