Myringotomy & Ear Tubes in Corpus Christi, TX
Myringotomy with tympanostomy tube (ear tube) placement is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the United States. It is highly effective for children and adults who suffer from recurrent acute otitis media, persistent middle ear effusion, or symptomatic Eustachian tube dysfunction. At Corpus Christi ENT Sinus & Allergy, Dr. Todd M. Weiss performs this procedure with precision and care to restore middle ear health and improve hearing.
What Is Myringotomy?
Myringotomy involves making a small incision in the eardrum (tympanic membrane) to drain accumulated fluid from the middle ear. A tympanostomy tube a tiny hollow cylinder is then inserted into the incision to maintain ventilation of the middle ear space. The tube allows air to enter the middle ear, equalizes pressure, and prevents fluid from re-accumulating.
Who Is a Candidate?
Ear tube placement is indicated for:
- Recurrent acute otitis media (three or more episodes in six months, or four or more in one year)
- Persistent otitis media with effusion lasting three months or more
- Structural changes in the eardrum from chronic negative pressure
- Language or developmental delays in children attributed to hearing loss from middle ear fluid
- Hearing loss associated with middle ear fluid
- Symptomatic Eustachian tube dysfunction
The Procedure
In children, myringotomy with ear tubes is typically performed under brief general anesthesia in an outpatient surgical facility. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. In cooperative adults, the procedure can often be performed in the office under local anesthesia.
The sequence of steps includes: administering anesthesia, cleaning the ear canal, making a small incision in the eardrum with a specialized blade (myringotomy knife), suctioning any fluid or pus from the middle ear, and placing the tube in the incision. No sutures are required.
Types of Ear Tubes
Short-Term Tubes (Grommet Tubes)
Short-term tubes are the most commonly used type. They typically remain in place for six to twelve months before spontaneously extruding from the eardrum as the membrane heals. They are appropriate for most first-time tube placements.
Long-Term Tubes (T-Tubes)
Long-term or permanent tubes are designed to remain in place for several years. They are indicated for patients who require extended middle ear ventilation, such as those with severe Eustachian tube dysfunction or cleft palate. Surgical removal is often necessary when these tubes are no longer needed.
After the Procedure
Most patients especially children experience immediate improvement in hearing following tube placement. Ear pain typically resolves within 24 hours. Activity restrictions are minimal. Water precautions (avoiding submersion of the ears) are generally recommended, though the necessity of ear plugs for bathing is individualized.
Risks and Complications
Myringotomy with ear tubes is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. Potential complications, though uncommon, include:
- Tube blockage (debris or dried secretions within the tube)
- Premature tube extrusion before middle ear conditions have resolved
- Persistent perforation after tube falls out (occurs in less than 2 percent of short-term tubes)
- Localized scarring of the eardrum (tympanosclerosis) — usually does not affect hearing
- Recurrent ear infections through the tube (treated with antibiotic ear drops)
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you or your child suffers from recurrent ear infections or fluid, ear tubes may help. Call us at (361) 320-6130 or connect with us online to schedule a consultation.