PRESSURE EQUALIZATION

TUBE PLACEMENT

POST OP INSTRUCTIONS

1. After the initial recovery period, your child can resume usual activities. Some nausea may be present for a few hours after surgery. Clear liquids may be given until this clears.
2. On discharge, you will be given a prescription or a sample bottle of ear drops. Use 5 drops in each ear twice daily, for 5 days.  Do not refrigerate the drops. They are best given at room temperature. The bottle can be warmed under the faucet for additional comfort. Some children may complain of tasting the drops. This  is normal. AFTER THE FIVE DAYS KEEP THE DROPS IN A CONVENIENT LOCATION IN CASE THEY ARE NEEDED AGAIN.
3. After surgery expect some discharge from the ears.  This may include mucous, pus or blood.  It will usually stop in a few days. 

EAR PROTECTION FROM BATH WATER

1. The ears must be protected from bath water as long as the tubes are in place. If water gets in the ears, infection may result.
2. Use one of the following methods to protect the ear from water, when taking a bath or shower.
   1. The most convenient method is to use a cotton ball covered with Vaseline to make it waterproof. This should fit in the outer bowl of the ear. The cotton ball may be re-used by storing it in a clean  baggy.
   2. Silly Putty works well as an ear mold. Fill the outer bowl of the ear. Do not press into the ear canal very far. This material may soften in the ear and can be difficult to remove. Avoid using this material outside in the heat.
   3. Similar material is available in the pharmacy under various names such as “Mack’s Ear Plugs”.
   4. Custom earplugs can be made. They are expensive and and the ear canal can change as the child grows.
   5. Plastic earplugs used for swimming or sound protection are not satisfactory. 

SWIMMING

Surface swimming in a clean chlorinated pool is permitted. Earplugs are not required. Swimming at a depth of greater than 5 feet, or swimming in dirty water can result in infection.

EAR DRAINAGE

A small amount of waxy discharge from the ear is normal.  Drainage which involves pus, mucous or blood usually means infection. If this occurs start the ear drops- five drops, twice daily. Notify our office the next business day so that we can give additional instructions. The child will be on the ear drops for about ten days. Do not call the emergency number. It is not necessary to notify your primary care doctor.

ROUTINE VISITS

     Remember to schedule a postoperative appointment for two weeks after surgery. Routine visits will be scheduled every few months until the tubes come out. The tubes are very effective in preventing ear infections and preventing damage to hearing. However care is required. Please follow these directions. Notify the office if there are any problems or if you have any questions.