Description of the procedure
A myringotomy with typanostomy tube insertion is the most common surgical procedure for children. A myringotomy is a surgical procedure where a small incision is made in the eardrum (tympanic membrane), typically in both ears. Small plastic tubes (typanostomy tubes), open at both ends, are then inserted into the incisions.
These tubes are often used in cases where children have long-lasting middle ear infections or fluid buildup. They allow fluid to drain out of the middle ear, which prevents pressure from building up. The tubes also allow air to move in an out of the middle ear.
The procedure can be performed in various locations, including hospital operating rooms, outpatient clinics, and doctor's offices, using either topical anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. Oftentimes, the choice will depend on the patient's age, but will also depend on the local resources that the surgeon has available to them.
A typanostomy tube, the small blue device near the bottom of the image, inserted in the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
When should this procedure be performed?
This procedure is performed by a doctor as needed.
Why is this procedure performed?
A tympanostomy tube insertion may be recommended if your child has one of the following conditions:
- fluid buildup in the middle ear lasting more than 4 months
- recurrent middle ear infections that have not responded adequately to antibiotic treatment over several months
- hearing loss due to fluid buildup in the middle ear
- delayed speech development due to fluid buildup in the middle ear
Tympanostomy tube insertion allows air to move in and out of the middle ear, and fluid to drain. This helps prevent permanent hearing loss, and speech and learning impairment. The procedure also helps reduce recurrent middle ear infections.
Are there any risks and precautions I should know about?
Certain risks are common to all surgery and every time a general anesthetic is used. These may include side effects of the anesthetic, breathing problems, infection, and bleeding.
Although tympanostomy tube insertion is generally considered safe, it does have some risk of side effects or complications. The most common side effects or complications include:
- scarring of the eardrum
- a permanent hole in the eardrum
- damage to the outer ear
- hearing loss
- ongoing fluid discharge from the ear