Our Summary

This research paper discusses the common practice of preventing children with ventilation tubes (VTs) in their eardrums from exposing their ears to water. These VTs are typically used to treat chronic ear infections and usually stay in the eardrum for 6 to 12 months. During this time, the most common complication is a leaky ear.

Traditionally, parents have been advised to protect their children’s ears from water to avoid causing acute ear infections. However, new evidence suggests that water is unlikely to pass through these tubes unless under significant pressure. As a result, it might not be necessary to routinely avoid water. Despite this, many doctors still recommend using earplugs or avoiding water activities.

This study aimed to review current evidence on this topic. The researchers examined several scientific papers and found no significant difference in the frequency of leaky ears between children with VTs who exposed their ears to water with or without ear protection, and those who didn’t expose their ears to water at all.

Therefore, the inconvenience of avoiding water may outweigh potential benefits, and could even delay children learning to swim. The study suggests that the decision to protect the ear from water should be made on a case-by-case basis, with protection recommended in the first month after surgery and in cases of recurrent leaky ears.

In conclusion, the study suggests that it is not necessary to prevent children with VTs from swimming or taking part in surface water activities without ear protection. However, certain precautions should still be taken.

FAQs

  1. Is it necessary to prevent children with ventilation tubes from exposing their ears to water?
  2. Does the exposure of ears to water increase the risk of leaky ears in children with ventilation tubes?
  3. When is it recommended to protect the ears from water after a child has had ventilation tube surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient about ear tube surgery is to avoid getting water directly in the ears, especially in the first month after surgery. Using earplugs or a swim cap to protect the ears while swimming or participating in water activities can help prevent complications such as infections or leaks. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and discuss any concerns or questions you may have about caring for your ears after surgery.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who have undergone ear tube surgery, particularly children with ventilation tubes in their eardrums, may be recommended to use ear protection in water activities for the first month after surgery and in cases of recurrent leaky ears. It is important for healthcare providers to assess each patient individually and make recommendations based on their specific situation to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes.

Timeline

Before ear tube surgery:

  • Patient experiences chronic ear infections
  • Consultation with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist
  • ENT specialist recommends ear tube surgery
  • Pre-operative appointments and tests
  • Surgery scheduled
  • Day of surgery: patient undergoes ear tube placement under general anesthesia

After ear tube surgery:

  • Recovery period: patient may experience mild discomfort, drainage from the ear, and temporary hearing loss
  • Follow-up appointments with ENT specialist to monitor healing and check for complications
  • Patient may be advised to avoid getting water in the ears for the first month after surgery
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities, including swimming and water sports, with or without ear protection
  • Regular check-ups to monitor the condition of the ear tubes and overall ear health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about ear tube surgery include:

  1. Do I need to protect my child’s ears from water after the surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks or complications associated with exposing the ears to water with ventilation tubes in place?
  3. How long should we wait before allowing my child to swim or engage in water activities after the surgery?
  4. Are there any specific circumstances where it is necessary to use ear protection when exposing the ears to water?
  5. How will I know if my child’s ear is leaking or if there is an infection?
  6. How often should we follow up with you after the surgery to monitor the condition of the ear tubes?
  7. Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should watch for that may indicate a problem with the ear tubes?
  8. Are there any restrictions on activities or behaviors my child should follow to prevent complications with the ear tubes?
  9. What is the expected timeframe for the ear tubes to naturally fall out on their own?
  10. What should I do if my child experiences pain or discomfort related to the ear tubes?

Reference

Authors: Moffa A, Giorgi L, Fiore V, Baptista P, Cassano M, Casale M. Journal: Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp (Engl Ed). 2022 Jul-Aug;73(4):246-254. doi: 10.1016/j.otoeng.2021.05.003. PMID: 35908817