Our Summary
This research paper focuses on how doctors manage the use of positive airway pressure (PAP) devices, which are used to treat sleep apnea, after their patients have had ear surgery. Since PAP devices can increase pressure in the middle ear, this is a concern for ear surgeons. The researchers conducted a survey of members of the American Neurotology Society to find out how they handle this issue.
The results showed a wide range of advice given to patients. Some doctors recommended avoiding PAP devices for a week after surgery, while others suggested patients could return to using them immediately. Some surgeons recommended avoiding them for a month, and others for just a day. Some even adjusted their advice based on the pressure settings of the PAP device.
Almost half of the doctors surveyed thought that some of their patients had ear problems because of their PAP devices, and a smaller number believed that the devices had caused surgical procedures to fail. A third of the doctors would routinely block the Eustachian tube (a canal that connects the middle ear to the upper throat and back of the nose) during surgery, especially if they thought a negative outcome was due to the use of a PAP device.
In conclusion, the study found that there is a great deal of variation in how doctors manage PAP device use after ear surgery. More research is needed to understand the impact of PAP devices on the middle ear, especially post-surgery.
FAQs
- What is the concern about the use of positive airway pressure (PAP) devices after ear surgery?
- What strategies do doctors use to manage the use of PAP devices after ear surgery, according to the survey?
- How can PAP devices potentially impact ear surgeries and what further research is needed in this area?
Doctor’s Tip
One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about ear tube surgery is to follow their specific post-operative care instructions closely, including any guidance on when it is safe to resume using a positive airway pressure (PAP) device if they have sleep apnea. It is important to communicate any concerns or questions about using the device to their doctor to ensure the best outcome for their ear health.
Suitable For
Patients who have undergone ear surgery, particularly procedures that involve the middle ear, are typically recommended ear tube surgery. This includes patients who have chronic ear infections, fluid build-up in the middle ear, or issues with Eustachian tube dysfunction. Ear tube surgery involves inserting tiny tubes into the eardrum to allow for proper drainage and ventilation of the middle ear.
Additionally, patients who have a history of frequent ear infections, hearing loss, or speech delays due to middle ear issues may also be recommended for ear tube surgery. Children who have recurrent ear infections that do not respond to other treatments, or adults who have experienced complications from chronic ear infections, may benefit from ear tube surgery as well.
Overall, patients who experience chronic ear problems that affect their quality of life and do not improve with other treatments may be recommended for ear tube surgery. It is important for patients to consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist to determine if ear tube surgery is the right treatment option for their specific condition.
Timeline
Before ear tube surgery, a patient may experience frequent ear infections, hearing loss, balance issues, and fluid buildup in the middle ear. They may also have been prescribed antibiotics or ear drops to manage their symptoms.
After ear tube surgery, the patient may experience immediate relief from ear pain and pressure. They may also notice improved hearing and balance. In the days following surgery, they may have some mild discomfort or drainage from the ears. They will typically have a follow-up appointment with their doctor to ensure proper healing and to discuss any ongoing symptoms or concerns.
Overall, ear tube surgery can provide long-term relief for patients with chronic ear issues, allowing them to have better quality of life and improved hearing.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about ear tube surgery and the use of PAP devices after surgery include:
- How soon after ear tube surgery can I safely use my PAP device?
- Are there any specific precautions I should take when using my PAP device after surgery?
- How will using a PAP device affect my recovery from ear tube surgery?
- Have any of your patients experienced complications or issues with their ears due to using a PAP device after surgery?
- Do you recommend adjusting the pressure settings on my PAP device to avoid any potential issues with my ears?
- Should I avoid using my PAP device for a certain period of time after surgery, and if so, how long?
- Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should watch out for that may indicate a problem with my ears related to using a PAP device post-surgery?
- Will you be taking any additional precautions during my ear tube surgery to minimize the risk of complications from using a PAP device afterwards?
- Are there any alternative treatments or devices that could be used instead of a PAP device to avoid potential issues with my ears post-surgery?
- Can you provide me with more information or resources on how PAP devices can impact the middle ear and what steps can be taken to mitigate any potential risks?
Reference
Authors: Ruhl DS, Tolisano AM, Kesser BW, Hashisaki GT, Camacho M. Journal: Otol Neurotol. 2017 Jul;38(6):e134-e137. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000001455. PMID: 28498266