Ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy or myringotomy tubes, are tiny devices surgically placed into the eardrum. Their purpose is to ventilate the middle ear and prevent fluid buildup, which often leads to recurrent ear infections or hearing difficulties. This article explains how ear tubes leave the ear, their appearance upon expulsion, what to expect afterward, and when medical attention may be necessary.
How Ear Tubes Leave the Ear
Ear tubes typically exit the ear as the eardrum’s natural healing process gradually pushes them out into the ear canal. This occurs as the eardrum regenerates new skin cells, slowly extruding the tube. Short-term ear tubes usually remain in place for about 6 to 18 months before falling out on their own.
Some ear tubes, like T-tubes, are designed to stay in longer, potentially for several years. If a tube does not fall out naturally within the expected timeframe or is no longer needed, a medical professional may need to remove it.
Appearance of an Expelled Ear Tube
When an ear tube comes out, it is very small, typically 2 to 3 millimeters in diameter, comparable to a match head or pen tip. These tubes are commonly shaped like a tiny spool or grommet, with a central opening and flanges that help secure them in the eardrum. Long-term tubes may have a T-shape.
Ear tubes are made from various medical-grade materials like plastic, metal, or silicone, and can be clear, white, blue, green, or metallic. An expelled tube might be found in earwax, ear discharge, or on a pillow. A tiny amount of old blood or discharge on or around the tube is generally normal. Due to their small size, expulsion often goes unnoticed.
After the Ear Tubes Are Out
Once an ear tube has been expelled, the small hole in the eardrum where it was placed typically closes on its own within a few days or weeks. After the tubes are out, a reduction in ear drainage may be observed as the ear’s ventilation improves. Hearing may also improve, especially if fluid buildup had caused temporary hearing loss.
Children can generally resume normal activities, including bathing and swimming, after the eardrum has healed, unless a doctor advises otherwise. Some healthcare providers may recommend earplugs for swimming in certain water conditions as a precautionary measure. Regular follow-up appointments with an ENT specialist are important to ensure proper eardrum healing and to monitor hearing.
When Tubes Need Medical Attention
While ear tube expulsion is usually normal, certain situations warrant contacting a medical professional. If tubes remain significantly longer than expected (e.g., beyond 18 months for short-term tubes), a doctor may need to evaluate removal. Persistent ear drainage, especially if thick, discolored, or strong-smelling, should also be reported.
Recurrent ear infections after tubes have fallen out, or any new hearing concerns, indicate a need for medical assessment. Prompt medical advice is also important if a tube comes out very soon after insertion, or if there is unusual pain, discomfort, or fever associated with the ear.