Kentuckiana ENT - Patient Education

Patient Education : Tympanostomy Tubes - Q and A

Questions most commonly asked:

What are tympanostomy tubes?

A tympanostomy tube is a tiny tube that is inserted through a small hole in the eardrum to allow air to get into the middle ear. The tubes come in many different shapes and sizes and are usually made of plastic or metal.

Why does my child need tympanostomy tubes?

Some children develop frequent middle ear infections or retain fluid in their middle ear because the eustachian tube, a tube that connects the middle ear to the throat, isn't working well enough to allow air to pass into the middle ear. As you probably know, ear infections can be very painful and fluid in the middle ear can impair hearing and speech development. Placement of a tympanostomy tube can help these problems by allowing air to enter and permitting fluid to drain out.

After tympanostomy tubes are placed, will my child still get car infections?

Some children with tympanostomy tubes still get middle ear infections but they are less common and are rarely painful. Children with tubes who get middle ear infections usually have visible pus or drainage in the ear canal. If this happens to your child, bring him/her to the doctor. The infection can be easily treated in most cases with ear drops such as FLOXIN® Otic (ofloxacin otic solution) 0.3%.

What are the possible side effects of FLOXIN® Otic?

During the testing of FLOXIN® Otic, the most common side effect was a bitter taste, which happened in 7% of patients with a middle ear infection. This may occur when some of the drops pass from the middle ear to the back of the mouth. This side effect is not serious and there is no need to stop the medicine if this should happen. Other side effects occurring during the testing of FLOXIN® Otic for middle ear infections were earache, itching, abnormal sensation, rash, and dizziness. These side effects occurred in about 1% of patients. If any of these side effects occurs, call your child's doctor. If your child experiences any kind of allergic reaction, discontinue the medication and contact your child's doctor.

How long will my child need the tympanostomy tubes?

Usually tyrnpanostomy tubes remain in place for 9 to 12 months. Generally, the tubes will fall out by themselves and the holes will heal up. Most children will eventually outgrow the tendency to develop middle ear infections and will no longer need the tubes. If your child continues to have frequent middle ear infections, it is possible that your physician will recommend replacing the tubes.