Myringotomy and pressure equalizing tube insertion

(Incision of eardrum and insertion of a plastic tube)

Diet:
Resume previous diet.

Activity:
No restrictions

Medications:
Ear drops, 3 drops each ear, 3 times per day, for three days. Save the rest.

Discomfort is usually relieved by Tylenol

If oral antibiotics were prescribed, please take all the medication.

Follow-up:
Return to the office 5 weeks after surgery. Call for an appointment.

You will be seen every 6 months while the tubes are in place.

Work/School:
You may return the day after surgery

Information:
Bloody drainage from the ear is normal and will reduce over the first 3 days.

Report drainage from the ear that persists longer than 3 days.

Call the doctor for excessive bleeding, or fever over 100.4 degrees.

Swimming and bathing are allowed while the tubes are in. NO EARPLUGS ARE NEEDED. If swimming in a lake or river, or bathing in very soapy water, then earplugs should be worn and can be obtained from any pharmacy. Our office can make custom earplugs too. If water is bothering your ears, then earplugs should be worn. If episodes of drainage occur frequently, after the tubes are inserted, I may suggest the use of earplugs.