Commonly known as myringotomy or tympanostomy tubes, ear tubes are a surgical treatment for recurrent and chronic ear infections. In children, Dr. Karanfilov performs this operation under general anesthesia for maximum patient comfort and safety. The operation is very quick and safe, typically taking less than 15 minutes of total operating room time. In almost all cases, no IV or breathing tube is necessary. Dr. Karanfilov makes a small incision in the eardrum, uses a small suction to remove fluid trapped behind the drum, and then places a tube at the incision site. Depending on your child’s age and the type of tube selected by Dr. Karanfilov, the tubes typically stay in place anywhere from 6-18 months. While tubes do not “cure” or prevent ear infections, they allow the infected fluid to drain out of the ear canal, limiting pain and pressure. Many ear infections can be treated with topical antibiotic drops when tubes are in place, sometimes eliminating the need for a doctor visit. When fluid is trapped behind the eardrum prior to surgery, removal of the fluid via suction will often result in noticeably better hearing acuity immediately after the operation.
For many adults, ear tube placement can be performed in the office setting under local anesthesia. Typically, Dr. Karanfilov is able to apply a liquid anesthetic called phenol directly to the eardrum surface, making this a reasonably comfortable procedure that is similar to getting a shot at your primary doctor’s office. For some adults requiring long-lasting tubes or with more challenging ear anatomy, Dr. Karanfilov may still recommend performing the operation under anesthesia in the OR setting to maximize your comfort and safety.
