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What Are the Side Effects of Ear Tubes?

Each year more than 500,000 children receive ear tubes, according to a report by National Public Radio. The procedure is a common method of reducing ear infections by allowing fluid buildup in the ears to drain.

  1. Significance

    • Ear tube insertion is considered a rather standard procedure in most hospitals and usually is done as an outpatient treatment. As with any surgery, however, there are a few possible side effects.

    Anesthesia

    • During any surgery, there is a concern about the side effects of anesthesia, to which certain patients can be sensitive. According to WebMD, these include difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting. Some people can also exhibit signs of an allergic reaction to the medicines used in anesthesia.

    Bleeding

    • Because a small incision is made to insert the tube, there is a danger of bleeding. This is typically mild unless the patient is suffering from another condition that reduces clotting, according to the American Academy of Otorlaryngology.

    Infection

    • The American Academy of Otorlaryngology cautions that infection is also a concern after any type of procedure with its symptoms being a foul-smelling or green discharge, redness or hardening of the area surrounding the incision, fever or extreme amounts of pain.

    Perforation

    • If a tube is removed and the hole in the tympanic membrane does not close, a hole or perforation can occur in the eardrum. This is rather uncommon and is correctable with a minor surgery.

    Scarring

    • Ear tubes can lead to scarring of the ear rum. Normally, this does not lead to any noticeable effect but in rare conditions it can damage hearing.

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