ear tube

ear tube A small plastic tube that is inserted into the eardrum (tympanum) to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time. To put an ear tube in place, a tiny surgical incision is made in the eardrum. Any fluid is removed. Water should not be allowed to enter the ear canal while the tubes are in place. Ear tubes may remain in place for several years. A physician may remove a tube during a routine office visit, or it may simply fall out of the ear naturally without the patient realizing it. Formally known as a tympanostomy tube.