Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026
07:06
Endaural Endoscopic Atticoantrotomy (Retrograde Mastoidectomy) using a Constant Suction Bone-drilling Technique
Published on: May 23, 2021
Meta-analysis of tympanostomy tube sequelae
D J Kay1, M Nelson, R M Rosenfeld
1Department of Otolaryngology, SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York, USA.
Summary
Sequelae from tympanostomy tubes are frequent, often involving temporary ear discharge or cosmetic changes. Careful monitoring after tube removal is essential, with long-term tubes reserved for specific cases.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Devices
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Tympanostomy tubes are commonly inserted to treat otitis media.
- Potential sequelae associated with these tubes require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and estimate the incidence of sequelae following tympanostomy tube insertion.
- To analyze the risks associated with different tube durations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published case series and randomized studies.
- MEDLINE search (1966-1999) and manual reference searches.
- Data extraction from 134 articles on cohort studies of otitis media.
Main Results:
- Transient otorrhea occurred in up to 26% of patients; chronic otorrhea in 3.8%.
- Common sequelae included tympanosclerosis (32%) and focal atrophy (25%) after extrusion.
- Long-term tubes significantly increased the risk of perforation and cholesteatoma.
Conclusions:
- Tympanostomy tube sequelae are common but often transient or cosmetic.
- Ongoing otologic surveillance is recommended for patients with and after tube use.
- Selective use of long-term tympanostomy tubes is advised.
