A myringotomy is a procedure to create a hole in the ear drum to allow fluid that is trapped in the middle ear to drain out. The fluid may be blood, pus and/or water. In many cases, a small tube is inserted into the hole in the ear drum to help maintain drainage.
What’s the difference between myringotomy and tympanostomy?
Myringotomy is the primary procedure to resolve chronic ear infections. However, the surgeon may perform a companion procedure called tympanostomy. With tympanostomy, the surgeon inserts small tubes into the cut created by myringotomy. The tubes allow excess fluid to drain out of the middle ear.
What does PE tube stand for?
Ear tubes are known by several names: tympanostomy tubes, ventilating tubes, pressure equalizing tubes or most frequently, PE tubes. They are tiny hollow tubes made of a soft material. PE tubes decrease the frequency of ear infections be allowing air in and helping fluid to drain into the throat.
What kind of doctor performs a stapedectomy?
An ENT surgeon performs stapedectomy surgery to add an artificial part in place of the stapes. Successful surgery allows sound to transmit to your inner ear from your eardrum again.
What is ear tube placement surgery?
Ear tube placement is a surgery to treat chronic middle ear infection (acute otitis media) and/or fluid buildup ( otitis media with effusion). These conditions can lead to hearing loss, speech problems, and ear structure damage. Ear tube placement involves placing tiny cylinder tubes made of metal or plastic through the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
What is the medical term for ear tubes?
The medical term for ear tubes is tympanostomy tubes. Ear tube placement is a common surgery but it has risks and potential complications. Your child may have less invasive treatment options. Consider getting a second opinion about all the treatment choices before having ear tube placement.
What are tympanostomy tubes?
Ear tubes, or tympanostomy tubes, are small tubes, open at both ends, that are inserted into the incisions in the eardrums during myringotomy. They come in various shapes and sizes and are made of plastic, metal, or both.
What happens if you have tubes in your ears?
These conditions can lead to hearing loss, speech problems, and ear structure damage. Ear tube placement involves placing tiny cylinder tubes made of metal or plastic through the eardrum (tympanic membrane). Tubes improve airflow in the ear and normalize ear pressure.
