If your child has chronic, recurrent ear infections, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician may recommend ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy tubes (TT). According to one 2022 article published in the National Library of Medicine, “Almost 7% of all children will have a least one set of TT by 3 years of age, and approximately 20% of children who receive one set of TT will require a second set at some point in their lives.”
Below, we review how to prepare your child for ear tube surgery.
Before Surgery
During the days and weeks before your child’s ear tube surgery, you should:
- Talk to them about the procedure. Sit your child down and tell them that in few days you’ll take them to a hospital, where doctors and nurses will take good care of them. The doctor will put a mask over their face, they’ll go to sleep and when they wake up, you’ll be with them. Afterward, they won’t have any more pain in their ears.
- Schedule a tour of the facility. Some hospitals and surgical centers will allow you and your child to tour their facility so that your child won’t be as nervous in an unfamiliar place on the day of the surgery.
- Communicate with their care team. A few weeks before the surgery, you’ll have a consultation appointment with the care team. Make sure you tell them about all the medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal remedies your child takes. They may advise you to have your child stop taking them for a little while. Follow these instructions carefully.
Day of Surgery
In the 24 hours leading up to surgery, make sure you:
- Follow all pre-op instructions. Your child’s doctor will tell you not to let your child eat or drink the night before or on the morning of surgery. If they do, it will need to be rescheduled.
- Practice good hygiene. Ensure your child bathes and brushes their teeth; however, don’t let them swallow any water or toothpaste, and don’t apply lotions or deodorants.
- Bring a comfort item. Tell your child they can bring a comfort item such as a blanket, stuffed animal, toy or book.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with an expert ENT physician, call Southeast Texas Ear, Nose & Throat, LLP today.
