If adenoidectomy is done, an additional 10 minutes is required. Both procedures may be done on an outpatient basis. The decision of whether to use adenoidectomy, tympanostomy tubes, or both is a complex one and should be individualized in each case. Tubes may be unnecessary if a myringotomy is done at the time of the adenoidectomy and the fluid is removed by suction. The tube will not be seen, nor felt by the child.
Ear popping and cracking with yawning and chewing are normal following the insertion of tubes.
Mild discomfort occasionally occurs and Tylenol will relieve these symptoms. If adenoidectomy is done, ear pain is often increased and Tylenol is usually necessary for a few days after the surgery. The child may eat anything he or she wishes once the nausea from the anesthetic has passed. Ear drainage may occur immediately after surgery or at any time while the tubes are in place. In the first few days after surgery the drainage may be blood-tinged.