Persistent middle ear fluid usually leads to decreased hearing, but may also be associated with balance problems or ringing in the ears. This loss of hearing is of special concern in small children, in whom normal hearing is important in the development of speech and other Language skills. A small cut is made in the eardrum just bigger than the size of the tube. If fluid is present in the middle ear, it is suctioned out at this time. Following this, the tube is placed into the opening and is held in place by the eardrum.
Ear tubes stay in the ear usually between six months and two years.
This varies depending on the tube selected and characteristics of the individual eardrum .