What it is:
Ear tubes are tiny cylinders placed in the eardrum to help drain fluid and prevent repeat infections. Sometimes complications can occur — the tube may fall out too early, stay in too long, cause persistent drainage, or leave a small hole in the eardrum after it comes out.
Common treatment:
We evaluate the ear with visual examination and/or binocular microscopy if appropriate. ENTs have specific tools to clear debris and drainage from the ear canal to clear a blocked tube and in many cases avoid oral antibiotics. Removal of debris, wax, and/or drainage will be completed if needed to visualize the eardrum and tube. Antibiotic ear drops for drainage or infection may be prescribed.