Download Ear Tubes Overview

Anatomy of the Ear
FLUID BUILDS UP IN THIS AREA
Tympanic cavity
Ear Tube Overview
Ear infections (otitis media) are the most common
infections requiring treatment in young children. They
have a tendency to become more frequent and less
responsive to antibiotic therapy. Some infections may
resolve spontaneously after a short period, while
others may require medication to aid in resolution.
Almost all children experience one or two infections in
the first two years of life, but environment and head
and neck anatomy make some children more prone to
multiple infections. A complication of otitis media may
cause long-term damage that may result in hearing
loss or neurologic problems and may contribute to
speech or developmental delay.
When a child experiences multiple ear infections, ear tubes (also called
tympanostomy tubes, ventilation tubes, or PE [pressure equalization] tubes)
may be recommended by an otolaryngologist. These tiny tubes are inserted
through the ear drum and perform a number of functions:
• The tube prevents many ear infections by allowing air in the middle ear
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to exchange freely with the outside air, preventing the formation of a
vacuum in the middle ear. This tends to keep infection from coming to
the ear from the back of the nose and causing the ear infection.
The equalization of the middle ear pressure prevents most of the
complications to the eardrum that result from formation of negative
pressure in the middle ear.
Should an ear with a tube in place become infected, the tube then
functions as a drain, without pain, by allowing pus to drain out.
The tube then allows the parent to insert medication directly to the site
of the infection using antibiotic/steroid ear drops.
The tubes can alleviate hearing loss caused by the accumulation of fluid
in the middle ear.
Ear tubes are made from various materials and consist of small, cylindrical tubes
that are positioned through the ear drum. Some tubes are designed to fall out
on their own, and others may require removal by a doctor.
UPON YOUR VISIT TO THE DOCTOR
After an ear doctor determines that the child will
benefit from the insertion of ear tubes, the parents (or
primary caretakers) should be given the following
information to assist in their decision to proceed with
the operation.
• The full extent of the child's problem and why
the doctor feels tubes are the best solution for
that particular child
• The details of the proposed procedure and any
common complications that might arise
• The type and extent of anesthesia to be used for
the case including possible preoperative
medication and discharge instructions
• Any possible long-term benefits or complications
• Any nonsurgical alternatives and the risks of not
performing the procedure
• Instructions for care of the child after the tubes
are inserted
Source: webMD
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/ear_tubes/article_em.htm
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