{"id":99,"date":"2022-01-06T21:38:39","date_gmt":"2022-01-06T21:38:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eoent.fm1.dev\/ear-tubes\/"},"modified":"2023-05-04T16:32:49","modified_gmt":"2023-05-04T21:32:49","slug":"ear-tubes","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/eoent.com\/ent\/ear-tubes\/","title":{"rendered":"Ear Tubes"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you\u2019re a parent, it probably comes as no surprise that middle ear infections are common in children, particularly those between the ages of six months and two years. Known as otitis media<\/a>, these are caused by a number of factors, both physical and environmental.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most ear infections clear up on their own, or are treated with antibiotics. But in some children, they can become a chronic problem that causes other issues, such as delays in speech development and learning. For these children, ear tubes may be recommended.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are Ear Tubes? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Ear tubes are tiny cylinders, made from plastic or other materials, which are surgically inserted into the eardrum. They are meant to remain in place from six months to as long as several years; at some point they will either fall out on their own, or will need to be surgically removed. They go by a variety of names including tympanostomy tubes<\/a>, ventilation tubes and PE (pressure equalization) tubes.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Is Ear Tube Surgery Performed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The surgery, known as a myringotomy, is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia by an ENT doctor<\/a>. Fluid behind the eardrum is suctioned out, a small incision is made in the eardrum and the tube is inserted. The procedure is quick and painless. It usually takes no longer than 15 minutes.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Myringotomy is a common and safe procedure as complications are rare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Benefits of Ear Tubes <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ear tubes provide ventilation to the middle ear and allow fluids to drain, reducing the chances of an ear infection from occurring. They can restore hearing loss<\/a> caused by excess middle ear fluid, alleviate speech and balance problems <\/a> and improve behavior and sleep problems caused by ear infections.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Effective Are Ear Tubes?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ear tubes are highly effective in reducing chronic ear infections, though some children (approximately 25 percent) who receive them before the age of two may need them again.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Call Eastern Oklahoma Ear Nose and Throat – Yale Office for more information or to schedule an appointment.<\/p>\r\n<\/svg>(918) 492-3636<\/span><\/a>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\n\n\n\n