What Makes In-Office Ear Tube Placement Procedures Preferred Over an Operating Room

For many parents, the idea of their child undergoing surgery in an operating room is a source of stress and worry. General anesthesia, long recovery times and high costs are common concerns associated with traditional procedures for putting tubes in ears. However, the Hummingbird Tympanostomy Tube System offers a safe, effective alternative: in-office ear tube placement.

The Benefits of Avoiding the Operating Room

In-office ear tube placement procedures offer a variety of benefits compared to traditional methods of putting tubes in ears:

• No General Anesthesia. With the Hummingbird, general anesthesia isn’t required. A topical anesthetic ensures the process is comfortable and safe.
• Minimal Recovery Time. Children can return to their normal activities the same day, minimizing disruption to daily life.
• Lower Costs. Depending on insurance, the in-office procedure can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses compared to hospital-based surgery due to the lack of anesthesia.

By removing many of the complexities of hospital surgery, in-office treatments can feel less intimidating and more accessible for families.

How Do In-Office Ear Tube Placement Procedures Work?

1. In-Office Ear Tube Procedure Preparation

Before the procedure begins, your child is made as comfortable as possible. Depending on their age and comfort level, they’ll either sit in a specialized chair or lie on an exam table. Young children may be swaddled to help keep them still. A topical numbing agent is applied to the eardrum and care staff will gently cradle your child’s head during wax removal and ear tube placement.

2. Ear Wax Removal

Once your child is comfortable, the physician will remove ear wax to ensure good access to the eardrum. Using tools like a microscope, the physician ensures precise visualization of the eardrum, allowing for the most accurate and safe placement of the ear tube.

3. Incision and Tube Placement

The procedure itself is remarkably quick. The physician makes an incision in the eardrum — called a myringotomy — and places the ear tube using a specialized device. If there is fluid trapped in the middle ear, it is sometimes gently suctioned out to relieve pressure.

4. Post-Procedure Care

After the tubes are placed, your child will be monitored briefly to ensure they’re feeling comfortable. Children are able to leave the office shortly after treatment, with no need for prolonged recovery and they can resume their favorite activities on the same day.

Parents will receive easy-to-follow care instructions, such as keeping the ears dry during bathing or swimming and watching for any signs of infection.

Are In-Office Ear Tubes Right for Your Child?

The Hummingbird Tympanostomy Tube System is a revolutionary option for families considering ear tube placement. Unlike traditional surgeries that require hospital visits, general anesthesia and long recovery times, this in-office ear tube procedure is quick, minimally invasive and designed with your child’s comfort in mind.

With a less stressful process and a faster recovery, parents can feel confident choosing this innovative alternative for their child’s care.

Find an ENT offering the Hummingbird Procedure near you by filling out our Find a Location form.