Ear Tube Surgery

Ventilation tubes for the middle ear

Ear tube surgery places ventilation tubes to treat persistent middle-ear fluid and infections. It is discussed when those problems do not settle with other care.

• Hearing change, fullness and repeated ear infections are reviewed
• The eardrum and middle ear are examined before tubes are advised
• Other care is considered before an operation is chosen

Persistent fluid and repeated infections

Fluid that stays behind the eardrum can dull hearing, and infections can keep returning. Tubes ventilate the middle ear when that pattern has not resolved.

• Persistent fluid is a reason to discuss ventilation tubes
• Repeated infections are assessed alongside hearing
• The aim is to ventilate the ear, not to treat every earache with surgery

Hearing follow-up while tubes are in place

Follow-up checks the tubes, any remaining fluid and hearing. The ear is reviewed while the tubes are doing their work.

• Hearing is checked so the effect on the middle ear can be understood
• The tubes are looked at to see that they are still in position
• Discharge from the ear is reviewed if it occurs

Ear tube placement at Estecenter in Şişli, Istanbul, is discussed when middle-ear fluid or infections keep returning.