Tympanostomy tube
This article was copied from From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia on 9/24/2007 according to the GNU Free Documentation License
Tympanostomy tube is a small tube inserted into the eardrum in order to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time. The operation to insert the tube involves a myringotomy. The tube itself is made in a variety of designs and materials.
Although myringotomy with tube insertion can be performed under local anesthesia during a regular doctor's appointment in co-operative adults, the typical patient who undergoes the procedure is not an adult but a young child. Since damage to the ear is possible unless the patient stays quite still while being manipulated, myringotomy and tube insertion in children is nearly always performed under a brief general anesthesia.
The insertion of tympanostomy tubes is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on children. In the USA, it is the most common reason for a child to undergo a general anaesthetic (Vaile L. Williamson T. Waddell A. Taylor G. Interventions for ear discharge associated with grommets (ventilation tubes).