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Myringotomy and PE Tubes
A myringotomy is an incision created in the ear drum to remove fluid or infection from the middle ear. Usually a small plastic Pressure Equalization (PE) tube is inserted into this opening to keep it from closing up in order to allow air to get into the middle ear and fluid to escape to that the middle ear can return to health. This tube usually does not impair hearing nor can it be felt by the patient. It remains in place for an average of 6-9 months and typically falls out on its own.
Day of the Procedure
Your child may have liquid or soft foods after fully awakening from the anesthetic.
Pain in the ear may occur and is readily relieved by Tylenol® or ibuprofen.
Drainage may continue for two or three days and might be blood-tinged. You may use cotton in the ear canal opening to absorb excessive fluid.
Day After the Procedure
There are no activity restrictions, including return to school.
You have been given a bottle of ear drops. Place two drops into each ear three times a day for three days. Shake the bottle before each use and store at room temperature. Keep the drops as you may need them in the future should your child develop ear drainage or if water has entered the ear (see below). Sometimes the drops may cause pain – call should this happen.
General Instructions
Prevent dirty or soapy water from entering the ear as a serious infection may result. Normal swimming in chlorinated water may be done without ear plugs. Underwater swimming or diving must be done with caution because the high water pressure may be applied to the inner ear and cause vertigo and deafness – wear custom-fitted ear plugs with a neoprene headband if you pursue these activities. During hair washing or bathing, use either plugs or Vaseline-coated cotton balls to block soapy water from entering the ear. After swimming or if you think that dirty water has entered the ear, place two ear drops into the ear canal.
Ear drainage may occur immediately after the procedure or at any time while the tubes are in place. If you notice drainage, resume the drops (two into the draining ear three times daily). If it lasts more than two or three days, or has a foul odor, contact us at the number listed below as oral antibiotics may be required.
Ear popping, cracking, or pain when burping, yawning, or chewing are common following insertion of the tubes. These will disappear as the ear heals.
Follow-up Appointments
A visit approximately two weeks after the procedure has already been scheduled.
We will check the tubes again in three months. At this visit only further follow-ups will be made, if necessary.
PLEASE CALL DRS. LOURY OR YOUNG AT (970) 493-5334 WITH PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS.
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