But if your child gets recurrent infections, your pediatrician may recommend inserting ear tubes.
They are called tympanostomy tubes, myringotomy tubes, ventilation tubes, or PE (pressure equalization) tubes.
There are no cut-and-dry rules for when tube placement surgery is indicated.
Cultura Science / Sigrid Gombert / Riser / Getty Images
Hearing problems can have a negative effect on learning and behavior.
Risks
Ear tube surgery usually lasts half an hour or less.
Your child will be sedated and should not have much, if any, pain.
Complications may occur with any surgical procedure.
Numerousstudieshave shown improved quality of life outcomes for children after getting tubes.
A pediatric ENT doctor can also provide a second opinion if you think your pediatrician is recommending tubes unnecessarily.
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