Does My Child Need Ear Tubes?

Ear tube surgery is the most common surgery performed in kids under the age of 15 in the United States. Ear tubes address the diverse problems caused by fluid buildup in the ear.  

What are ear tubes?

Ear tubes are very small, hollow tubes that are surgically placed inside the eardrum. These tubes are usually made of plastic and are also referred to as tympanostomy or myringotomy tubes. They allow air to enter the middle ear, which helps fluid flow out of the middle ear through the tube into the ear canal.

When are ear tubes needed?

Ear tubes are usually needed when issues arise from blocked eustachian tubes in the ears. Eustachian tubes connect the middle ears to the back of the throat, and they help to drain fluid and keep air pressure in the ears level. Blocked eustachian tubes are usually caused by swelling from a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection, which prevents the tubes from opening. This leads to pressure changes and fluid buildup. Children are more at risk for ear infections because their eustachian tubes are shorter and more easily blocked than the tubes in adults. Some of the issues that arise from blocked eustachian tubes that may require surgical action include:

  • Recurring ear infections
    • Three in a six-month period
    • Four in the span of one year
  • Fluid buildup in the ears for three to four months
    • Especially with hearing loss
  • Speech delay in children
    • Hearing loss can lead to speech delays

How does the surgery work?

Ear tube surgery is relatively simple and is done in an outpatient surgery clinic. This means that your child can go home the same day, usually one to two hours after the surgery. The surgical process involves:

  • Administering general anesthesia
  • Making a small hole in the eardrum
  • Suctioning the fluid out of the middle ear
  • Inserting the ear tube into the hole
  • Scheduling follow-up visits to see if the tubes are working

The tubes inserted into the ear can last anywhere from 6-18 months. After that, they should fall out on their own. It is important to note that ear tubes do not prevent future ear infections, but they do lower the risk of them happening.  

Benefits of Ear Tubes

Overall, ear tubes can provide a wide array of benefits and relief to the patient. Ear tubes help to:

  • Clear fluid from the middle ear and restores hearing.
  • Prevent future buildup of fluid in the middle ear while in place.
  • Decrease the feeling of pressure in the ears, which reduces pain.
  • Lower the risk of future ear infections.
  • Help with behavior and sleep problems related to ear infections.

Consulting with an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist is the best way to determine whether your child would benefit from ear tubes. They will help determine a course of action that best fits your child’s needs. Our ENTs at Faith Regional provide your child with compassionate, individualized care, so they can feel back to normal in no time.

Sources: Justin Oltman, MD, Eric Rohe, MD , Mayo Clinic