When are ear tube necessary?

Ear tubes, also called "pressure equalization tubes," are used to treat recurrent middle ear infections and persistent middle ear fluid in children and adults.  Middle ear infections and fluid occur when a pressure difference develops in the middle ear space.  This pressure difference creates a vacuum in the space that draws in fluid.  For most individuals, middle ear infections improve with proper medication and time. In some cases, however, abnormalities in the anatomy and function of the pressure equalization system make it difficult for the ear to get rid of the fluid.  When this happens your physician may recommend surgical placement of a ventilation tube in the eardrum. This “tube” allows fluid to drain from behind the eardrum, and allows for constant equalization of the middle ear space preventing fluid accumulation. The individual typically notices a remarkable improvement in hearing and a decrease in the frequency of ear infections.