Retained Tympanostomy Tubes: Who, What, When, Why, and How to Treat?

Tympanostomy tube placement is one of the most common surgical procedures performed across the globe. Controversies exist regarding what to do when a tube is considered to be retained in the tympanic membrane for too long.

Review of the PubMed medical literature starting in 1990, focusing on English language studies reporting on the definition, complications, and management of retained tympanostomy tubes.

The medical literature reporting on outcomes regarding retained tympanostomy tubes is relatively sparse. Most studies recommend prophylactic removal of tubes after a defined period of time, usually around 2 to 3 years after placement. A preferred method of myringoplasty after tympanostomy tube retrieval has not been established, but most studies recommend grafting the perforation at the time of tube removal.

Although a consensus as to the optimal management of retained tympanostomy tubes is not yet established in the medical literature, a preponderance of studies recommend prophylactic removal at defined period of time (>2-3 years) before the onset of complications such as otorrhea and granulation tissue formation. Due to a lack of best evidence, the surgeon's preference remains the guiding principle as to the best technique for myringoplasty at the time of removal.