Tubes in Children's Ears Information

Approximately three out of every four children experiences an ear infection before the age of 3, according to KidsHealth.org. For children with chronic ear infections, tubes are often beneficial at decreasing the number of occurrences of ear pain and fevers.

Identification

• Ear tube insertion is a surgical procedure and begins with the administering of a general anesthetic to put your child to sleep. Then, doctors make a tiny incision in your child's ear with a scalpel or laser and inserts a metal or plastic tube into the eardrum.

Time Frame

• The entire ear-tube insertion procedure typically requires 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Usually, your child can return home within a few hours of the treatment, and full recovery occurs in approximately one week.

Function

• Placing tubes in your child's ears allows fluid to drain more easily and balances the pressure between the inner and outer ear. This causes fewer ear infections and often helps with hearing or speech problems related to ear infections.

Effects

• Your child is likely to feel tired or irritable for the first day after the procedure, and you may notice a clear, bloody, green, yellow, brown or pink discharge from his ear. Your doctor may prescribe ear drops to put in your child's ears to speed her healing.

Risks

• Though uncommon, the insertion of ear tubes has the potential to cause bleeding or infection. There is also a slight risk of tearing or scarring the eardrum.

Considerations

• In some cases, it may be necessary for your child to wear ear protection while bathing or swimming for months or years after ear-tube insertion. Discuss with your child's doctor if this is needed.