It’s an awful feeling to watch your child suffer and know there’s nothing you can do to make it stop. What makes it even harder is when your child can’t even express their feelings of pain or fear, whether because they’re too young or because they’re just unable to.
If you have a child at home, chances are you’ve had to deal with earaches. They’re a common problem when colds or sore throats are going around. This leads to a buildup of fluid and sometimes painful pressure.
What are ear tubes?
Ear tubes, also called tympanostomy or ventilation tubes, are inserted into the eardrum to allow air to flow in and out of the middle ear, maintaining pressure balance.
When are ear tubes recommended?
In a healthy ear, small air-filled tubes help the ear function properly. The T-Tube has effectively supported children with chronic middle ear issues by allowing the body to naturally adapt to a healthy ear without increasing the risk of dangerous complications.
What is the ear tube surgery process like?
Minor ear-tube surgery, a simple and brief procedure, typically requires about 15 minutes of a child’s time. The surgery is relatively uncomplicated. The doctor first creates a little hole in the eardrum with a laser tool or a scalpel. Then, using a small tube, the doctor suctioned out any fluid accumulated in the middle ear. Lastly, the doctor places the ear tube through the incision into this now-empty space. The doctor can use a small plastic ear tube or a metal one. Either one will allow the eustachian tube to remain open and let the ear drain any extra fluid that may accumulate.
Reference:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/eustachian-tubes-what-to-know
Final Thoughts
Ear tubes are an excellent way to help children with fluid in their middle ears. The operation is simple and can mean the end of a series of ear infections and improved hearing for the child. If you think your child may have an ear infection, you must take your child to the doctor. They can decide if your child would benefit from ear tubes. The website and office for the Colorado ENT & Allergy team in Denver, CO, are both excellent resources to consult if you have questions about this operation or other ENT procedures.