Sometimes they come out too quickly and need to be replaced by another set. Rarely, they fall into the middle ear space and need to be removed by the surgeon. If the tubes remain in the eardrum for over 2 years, the surgeon may need to remove them. Both of these problems can cause a small hearing loss. Because of these possible complications and the need to give anesthesia to young children before the operation, physicians recommend ventilation tubes only for children who definitely need them.
Most children have only temporary hearing loss because of fluid in their middle ears.
When you talk to your child during this time of temporary hearing loss, get close to him, seek eye contact, get his full attention, and occasionally check that he understands what you have said. If your child is not hearing you well, speak in a louder voice than you normally use. A common mistake is to assume your child is ignoring you when actually he doesn't hear you. Reduce background noise from radio or television while you talk with your child. If your child goes to school, make sure that he sits near the teacher.