Pressure Equalization Tube Placement / Tympanostomy
Patients who suffer from recurrent ear infections or fluid in the ear may benefit from pressure equalization (PE) tubes. PE tubes, also called tympanostomy or ventilation tubes, are small inserts that are surgically placed in the eardrum under monitored sedation in children, or under local anesthetic for adults on an outpatient basis in our Los Angeles area office. Adult patients can usually return to work and other regular activities the same day, while children can return to school the next day. PE tubes allow air to enter the middle ear and fluid to drain effectively, while also restoring hearing and preventing fluid from building up again in the future.
Tympanostomy tubes are usually considered when a patient has fluid in one or both ears for more than 3 months or has recurring ear infections. The tubes drain the ears of fluid and allow ventilation of the middle ear. Tympanostomy tubes typically stay in place for 6-12 months, at which time they fall out on their own or, less commonly, are surgically removed. The tubes are usually effective in preventing ear infections.
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