An ear tube procedure is a common surgical procedure in children designed to address middle ear infections. If your child is scheduled for this procedure, understanding what to anticipate will help alleviate many of your concerns and provide the right support for your child.
Surgery Overview
The placement of an ear tube becomes necessary when the tube running from the middle ear to the back of the throat (the Eustachian tube) malfunctions and fills with fluid. During the surgery, a tympanostomy tube is placed behind the eardrum to rectify this. The procedure is typically recommended for persistent ear infections in children aged one to three. The surgery itself is brief, lasting about 15 minutes.
Preparation And Aftercare
Before the procedure, your child’s health, medications and any allergies will be reviewed. You may be asked to ensure your child is fasting before the procedure, and you will likely be asked to arrive a few hours early.
After the procedure, your child can return home the same day if there are no complications. They will be taken to a recovery room immediately following the procedure to awaken from anesthesia. Side effects after the procedure could involve heightened noise sensitivity and temporary fluid discharge with a swift return to normal activities. You will likely be asked to take precautions, such as keeping water out of the ears, and your doctor will provide a thorough list of side effects to watch out for.
While the idea of surgery for your child can cause some worry, selecting a trusted doctor and understanding the process can help reduce concern.
For further information or questions about ear tube procedures, contact Advantage ENT & Audiology today.