Ear Tubes

Ears tubes  – Dr. Brian Szwarc

Patient Information
Myringotomy with or without tympanostomy tube insertion is the most commonly performed ear operation. It is extremely safe and effective. Complications are minor and usually in the form of infection, which may be treated with antibiotics. The tube usually remains in place for several months, although it may be rejected sooner or remain in place for years. Occasionally the eardrum fails to heal after tubes have been removed, and the resulting perforation may require surgical repair. In some cases, particularly when there is a family history of chronic ear disease, tympanostomy tubes may need to be replaced. Hearing improvement is usually immediate after fluid has been removed from the ear. Failure to improve hearing indicates a second problem in the middle or inner ear.

After Surgery
It is ok to give the patient some Tylenol or Motrin if there is discomfort.
Children are often fussy until the anesthetic wears off… this may take a few hours.
Drainage is normal after surgery for a few days. There may be some blood coming from the ear, this is ok. Contact Dr. Szwarc’s office if this persists more that 4-5 days.

Things to do
Try to keep the ears dry. Do the best you can. Earplugs are not needed. It is ok for water to splash in the ear.
If water does get in the ear, just blow a hairdryer into the ear for a little while to help dry the ear.
I suggest cupping of hand over the ear when rinsing the hair.

Things not to do
Pour alcohol in the ear. Only pour drops that are okayed by your physician.

Drainage from the ears
If the ear has fluid coming out or the pillow is wet it is very likely that an infection is occurring in that ear. The drainage is often milky white and sometimes smells bad. If this is the case antibiotic eardrops almost always will cure the infection. Follow the physician’s instructions.

Contact the Doctor
If you have a question about the ears after surgery you can call Dr. Szwarc’s office 229-226-1443 or if it is an emergency call 229-228-2000 and ask that he be paged.