What to Expect from an Ear Tube Procedure Posted on July 26, 2024 by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists An ear tube procedure, or tympanostomy, is a procedure to place a tube behind the ear drum to drain fluid from the ear. This procedure becomes necessary when the Eustachian tube, which runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat, malfunctions and fills with fluid. It is often recommended for young children who suffer from persistent ear infections. The surgery itself is brief, typically lasting about 15 minutes. If your child has an ear tube procedure scheduled, it’s helpful to know what to expect from the procedure itself as well as recovery. Preparation and the Procedure Before the procedure, your child’s health, medications and any allergies will be reviewed with your doctor. You may need to ensure your child is fasting before the surgery, and you will likely be asked to arrive a few hours early on the day of the procedure. During the surgery, your child will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure they remain still and pain-free. The surgeon will make a small incision in the eardrum to drain any fluid present in the middle ear. A tiny tube, called a tympanostomy tube, is then inserted into the eardrum to allow air to enter the middle ear and prevent fluid buildup. This procedure helps to ventilate the middle ear and reduces the risk of future infections. The surgery is typically quick, and once the tube is in place, your child will be taken to a recovery room, where they will be monitored as they wake up from the anesthesia. Most children can go home within a few hours after the procedure. Aftercare After the procedure, your child can return home the same day if there are no complications. Side effects could include heightened noise sensitivity and temporary fluid discharge, but your child should be able to return to normal activities shortly. Precautions, such as keeping water out of the ears, will likely be recommended by your doctor, who will also provide a thorough list of side effects to watch for. Understanding and Reducing Concerns While the idea of surgery for your child can be intimidating, choosing a trusted doctor and understanding the process can help alleviate concerns. Knowing what to expect before, during and after the surgery can provide peace of mind and ensure a smoother experience for both you and your child. For more information or questions about ear tube procedures, contact Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists to learn more today. How ENTs Diagnose Ear Infections in ChildrenCan Allergies Be the Cause of Frequent Ear InfectionsHow Are ENT Disorders Diagnosed?