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A retrospective review of Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes
Devika D Sparks1, Danielle Blake2, Bridgette Carter3
1University of Connecticut School of Medicine, USA.
Insights
Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes (TT) showed expected initial plugging but all extruded within 4 years. Tympanic membrane perforation rates were notably low, indicating a favorable safety profile for these ear tubes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Otology
Background:
- Tympanostomy tube (TT) insertion is a common procedure in pediatric otology.
- Paparella Type 1 tubes are frequently used, but data on their long-term extrusion and complication rates require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extrusion rates of Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes (TT).
- To determine the complication rates associated with Paparella Type 1 TT placement, specifically focusing on tympanic membrane perforations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted.
- The study included pediatric patients (6 months to 12 years) who received Paparella Type 1 TT insertion by a single surgeon.
Main Results:
- Of 197 TTs evaluated, 3% experienced plugging within 1-3 months post-surgery.
- All 144 TTs assessed for long-term outcomes extruded within 4 years.
- No instances of tympanic membrane perforation were recorded.
Conclusions:
- Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes exhibit an expected rate of initial occlusion.
- The incidence of tympanic membrane perforation following Paparella Type 1 TT insertion is lower than anticipated, suggesting a good safety profile.
Objective:
This study aims to provide data on ear tube extrusion and complication rates for patients who have Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tube (TT) placement.
Methods:
Retrospective chart review of patients 6 months to 12 years old who underwent insertion of Paparella Type 1 TT by a single surgeon.
Results:
Of 197 tubes evaluated, 3% were plugged between 1 and 3 months after surgery. Of the 144 tubes evaluated long-term, all tubes extruded within 4 years. There were no tympanic membrane perforations.
Conclusions:
This chart review showed expected rate of initial ear tube plugging. The rate of tympanic membrane perforation was lower than expected.

