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Ear tube insertion

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Myringotomy; Tympanostomy; Ear tubes surgery

Expectations after surgery:

After this procedure, most parents report fewer ear infections, faster recovery from infections, and less worrying about whether their children have ear infections.

If ear infections return after the first tubes fall out, the procedure can be repeated with another set of ear tubes.

Convalescence:

Patients usually leave the hospital the same day. Swimming is prohibited unless special earplugs are worn. Use of a cap while under a shower is recommended for several days or weeks.

• Review Date: 7/25/2007
• Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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