Ear tubes
in children
Learn about
Ear Tubes, Ear Infections
and Hearing Issues
What Are Ear Infections?
Ear infections, also called otitis media (infection of middle ear), occur when bacteria or viruses cause inflammation and infection in the middle ear. Symptoms may include ear pain, fever, drainage from the ear, hearing loss, and irritability. While many ear infections resolve on their own (viral) or are effectively treated with antibiotics (bacterial), frequent or persistent infections can lead to long-term issues. Even though the antibiotics take care of the infection, the fluid persists in the ear for a while and can cause hearing loss and developmental delays in speech and language. For these cases ear tubes are recommended.
Signs and Symptoms
- Ear pain or frequent pulling at ears
- Fever
- Fussiness or poor sleep
- Trouble hearing or responding to sound
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Poor appetite
- Delayed speech or language development
When Are Ear Infections a Problem?
Many children have an occasional ear infection, but some develop recurrent or chronic infections that can affect hearing, behavior, and learning.
Consider Ear Tubes If Your Child Has:
- 3 or more ear infections in 6 months
- 4 or more infections in one year
- Fluid behind the eardrum for 3 months or longer with hearing loss
What Are Ear Tubes?
Ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy tubes or ventilation tubes or pressure equalization tubes(PE Tubes) , are tiny cylinders placed through the eardrum to provide ventilation and drainage for the middle ear. Ear tubes help by facilitating drainage of fluid, equalize pressure in the middle ear and improve hearing in cases of persistent fluid buildup. The ear tubes also act like a conduit for putting ear drops and taking care of the middle ear infection. Ear tubes usually stay for 12-18 months and then fall out by themselves. Ear tubes are not visible externally as they are placed in the ear drum.
Ear Tube Procedure Options
Traditional (OR-Based) Tube Placement
- Performed under general anesthesia in the operating room
- Typically takes 10–15 minutes
- Child goes home the same day
In-Office Ear Tubes (No General Anesthesia!)
- Now available for eligible patients
Surgical Procedure
The procedure involves:
Anesthesia
- The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, especially for children.
Incision
- Once the patient is under anesthesia, a small incision is made in the eardrum under microscope.
Fluid Removal
- Any accumulated fluid or infection in the middle ear is suctioned out through the incision.
Tube Placement
- A tiny tube, often made of plastic or other materials, is then inserted through the incision in the eardrum and placed in the hole.
Recovery
- After the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery area.
In-office Ear Tube Placement
We offer in-office ear tube placement using the Humming Bird—a quick, gentle procedure performed while your child is awake.
Benefits of In-Office Tubes
- No general anesthesia
- Less waiting and recovery time
- Child-friendly environment
What to Expect After Surgery
- Most children feel better immediately after ear tubes are placed
- Hearing often improves within days
- Ear drops may be prescribed after the procedure
- Regular follow-ups are needed to monitor the tubes, which typically fall out on their own after 6–18 months
Ear Tube Placement
- Ear tube placement is generally not painful. If your child experiences discomfort, you may give them acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Motrin ®) as needed.
- Your child may have draining fluid, which is sometimes bloody, for several days after surgery
Ear Drops
- Use Ciprodex ear drops (Provided to you), 4 drops twice a day in both ears for a period of 5 days. Store the ear drops in a closed container at room temperature, keeping them away from heat, moisture, and direct light to maintain their effectiveness. Be sure to save any remaining drops for future treatments, as long as they are within their expiration date.
Drainage or Ear Infection
- Some drainage is expected after surgery. If there are ear infections with drainage of pus use the prescribed ear drops.
Extrusion of Tubes
- Tympanostomy tubes typically extrude naturally after about a year to a year and a half. This is a normal part of the process, and we’ll monitor the status of the tubes during follow-up visits.
Follow-Up
- Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the tubes are functioning properly.
Hearing Test
- A hearing test will be scheduled at three months follow up
Precautions
Swimming
- Earplugs are necessary when swimming in a pool to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
Bathing & Traveling
- There is no need for earplugs during routine bathing or while traveling.
Ear plugs: What kind
For swimming, there are several types of earplugs suitable for use with tympanostomy tubes to help keep water out of the ear canal:
Silicone Earplugs
- Moldable Silicone Earplugs:
These are soft, pliable earplugs that can be molded to fit the outer ear. They provide a custom fit and are effective at keeping water out.
Waterproof Ear Bands
- Ear bands or swim bands are worn over the ears and are often used in combination with earplugs to provide extra protection against water entering the ears. They are particularly useful for children who have difficulty keeping earplugs in place.
- For swimming in pools, moldable silicone earplugs are usually the best options. It’s important to ensure that the earplugs are fitted correctly to avoid any gaps that could allow water to enter the ear canal. Cover the ear plug with vaseline for getting a seal.
There are no restrictions to travelling or activity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Tubes
- Will my child still get ear infections after getting tubes?
Ear tubes help reduce the frequency and severity of infections, but some infections may still occur. However, they are often less painful and can be treated with antibiotic ear drops instead of oral antibiotics.
- Can my child swim or take a bath with ear tubes?
Yes children can swim and bathe normally. We recommend earplugs while swimming but not for routine bathing or showering.
- How do I know if the ear tubes have fallen out?
Tubes often fall out unnoticed. Your ENT will check during follow-up visits.
- What happens if an ear tube does not come out on its own?
If a tube remains in place beyond two years, an ENT may need to remove it to prevent complications.
- Will ear tubes leave a hole in the eardrum?
In most cases, the eardrum heals completely after the tubes fall out. In rare cases, a small hole (perforation) remains and may require surgical repair.
- Can ear tubes cause long-term damage?
Complications are rare. Possible risks include scarring of the eardrum, chronic drainage, or a persistent perforation, but these are uncommon.
- Do ear tubes affect speech and language development?
In children with hearing loss due to chronic fluid buildup, ear tubes can significantly improve hearing, which helps with speech and language development.
- How soon can my child return to daycare or school?
Most children can resume normal activities, including school and daycare, the day after surgery unless instructed otherwise
- Can we travel by air after surgery?
Yes , its safe to travel by air after ear tube placement.
- Will my child need another set of ear tubes when the tubes fall out?
About 10-25% of children will need another set of ear tubes .Children may need a second set of ear tubes if they have recurrent ear infections (≥3 in 6 months or ≥4 in 12 months), persistent middle ear fluid for ≥3 months with hearing loss or speech delay, chronic ear drainage, severe eustachian tube dysfunction, or significant tympanic membrane retraction.
Why Choose Us?
Dr. Sohit Kanotra and the Pediatric ENT team at UCLA are national leaders in minimally invasive ear care. We offer:
- In-office and OR-based ear tube placement
- Expertise in treating recurrent otitis media and hearing loss
- A compassionate, family-centered approach
- Convenient locations in Westwood and Santa Monica