Ear Tubes (Ventilation Tubes)

When the functioning of the Eustachian tube cannot be achieved with drug treatments, a hole in the eardrum from the outside is made to prevent or treat the problems in the middle ear. The goal is to allow the fluid inside the tympanic membrane to drain and prevent disease from developing in the tympanic membrane by equalizing the pressure. If the hole is left open for a long period of time, the damaged cells in the middle ear cavity heal and the functions of the Eustachian tube improve. For this purpose, a small tube called a “ventilation tube” is inserted into the opened hole. There are different types of these tubes, some fall off by themselves, others only when removed by a doctor. Their selection is made by the doctor depending on the shape, duration and severity of the disease. The tubes are placed under a microscope. While the tubes are being placed, adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy may also be performed, depending on the patient’s condition and the disease.

For patients who have a tube, it is important to protect their ears from water because the middle ear is a sterile, germ-free space. If unsterile water from outside enters this area, it will cause severe ear infections and discharge.