The tubes help drain this fluid, and prevent it from building up. About one million children each year have tubes placed in their ears. The most common ages are from 1 to 3 years old. The risks and benefits will be different for each child. It is important to discuss this with your child's physician and surgeon.
Hearing is restored in some children who experience hearing problems.
Speech development is not harmed. Ear t ubes allow time for the child to mature and for the eustachian tube to work more efficiently. Children s behavior, sleep, and communication may be improved if ear infections were causing problems. After they fall out, if ear infections recur, they may need to be replaced. If they remain in the ear too long, the surgeon may need to remove them.