Ear Tube Removal
If you or your child’s ear tubes do not fall out on their own, we have a procedure to remove them.
Overview
Ear tube removal is a simple procedure performed to extract tiny tubes (also known as tympanostomy tubes or grommets) that were previously inserted into the eardrum to treat recurrent ear infections or persistent fluid in the middle ear. While many ear tubes fall out independently in 6-18 months, some may require surgical removal by an ENT specialist.
Benefits
Ear tube removal offers several benefits, including:
- Restored Eardrum Function: Allows the eardrum to return to its natural state and function properly.
- Complication Prevention: Reduces the risk of long-term complications associated with prolonged tube placement.
- Improved Hearing: May lead to better hearing once the eardrum fully heals after tube removal.
- Reduced Infection Risk: Eliminates the potential entry point for bacteria, decreasing the chance of future ear infections.
- Ear drum hole repair: a tube is simply a way to keep a small hole open in the ear drum for a prolonged period. Repairing the ear drum immediately following tube removal is an important part of the treatment.
Procedure Details
What Happens Before the Procedure?
Before ear tube removal, patients will consult with their ENT specialist. The doctor will examine the ears to confirm the tubes are ready for removal and discuss the procedure details, including any potential risks. A hearing test will need to be done as part of preparation for the procedure.
What Happens During the Procedure?
ENTs typically perform balloon sinuplasty in the office under local anesthesia, often with Valium or other relaxing medication. The steps of the procedure include:
- Cleaning the ear canal
- Using a microscope to visualize the ear tube
- Gently removing the tube with specialized instruments
- Plugging the hole in the ear drum with a small amount of fat from the ear lobe
- Examining the eardrum for proper healing
How Long Does Ear Tube Removal Take?
The actual removal of the ear tube usually takes only a few minutes; however, some more time is required following tube removal, usually about 15 minutes. This is because a small amount of fat from the ear lobe is used to plug the hole in the ear drum that is left behind when the tube is removed.
Recovery & Outlook
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after ear tube removal. To ensure proper healing, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions after the procedure. In addition, your ENT specialist may recommend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and monitor for any recurrence of ear problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is ear tube removal painful?
If done in the operating room, there is no pain since patients are under general anesthesia. If performed in the office, there is some brief discomfort as the tube is removed.
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How long does it take for the eardrum to heal after tube removal?
The eardrum usually heals within a month of tube removal.
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Can ear tubes fall out on their own?
Yes, most ear tubes fall out on their own as the eardrum heals; however, some may require removal by an ENT specialist.
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Are there any restrictions after ear tube removal?
Your doctor may recommend avoiding swimming, flying and nose blowing for a month or so after the procedure. Follow your ENT's specific instructions.
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What if I or my child needs ear tubes again after removal?
In some cases, recurrent ear problems may necessitate the placement of new ear tubes. Your ENT specialist will discuss this if it becomes necessary.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Davis
Written by
Breathe Clear Institute Editorial Team
Posted on
June 4, 2024