Ear tube insertion (Tympanostomy)
Inserting ear tubes is a simple procedure that relieves fluid buildup in the middle ear, hearing loss, and recurrent ear infections in both children and adults. At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by our Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists.
Ear Tube Insertion (Tympanostomy Tubes / Grommets)
An ear tube (grommet) is a tiny tube placed in the eardrum to drain trapped fluid from the middle ear and restore normal air pressure. This quick procedure is recommended when a patient suffers from persistent middle ear fluid, associated hearing loss, or recurrent ear infections. In children, ear tubes are inserted under a brief general anesthesia, while in adults, the procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. The insertion takes only a few minutes, and the tubes usually fall out on their own after 6 to 12 months.
When is Ear Tube Insertion Necessary?
Ear tubes are considered when fluid in the middle ear persists and begins to affect a patient's hearing.
- In Children: Tubes are typically recommended if middle ear fluid has been present for more than three months, if it is causing hearing loss or speech delays, or if the child experiences frequent, painful middle ear infections accompanied by high fevers. Because this condition can resolve naturally, a watchful waiting period is usually recommended first.
- In Adults: Tubes are placed to treat persistent fluid build-up or chronic pressure issues (such as severe discomfort during flights or pressure changes).
Our ENT specialists will always carry out a thorough assessment to determine if ear tubes are the right treatment path for you or your child.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Inserting ear tubes is a short, outpatient procedure. The specialist makes a microscopic opening in the eardrum, gently suctions out any trapped fluid, and places the tiny tube in the opening.
- For Children: The procedure is performed under a brief, gentle general anesthesia. The child can return home the same day and is usually ready to return to daycare or preschool the very next morning. If enlarged adenoids are contributing to the blockage, they can be gently removed during the same anesthetic session.
- For Adults: The insertion is comfortably performed under local anesthesia in our outpatient clinic and takes only a few minutes.
What is the Recovery and Follow-Up Like?
For the vast majority of patients, recovery is quick and uncomplicated, and hearing is often restored immediately.
In the first few days after the procedure, some minor discharge from the ear is normal. Later on, when your child catches a cold, you may notice fluid draining from the ear tube. This is a sign that the tube is working correctly; however, if the fluid is smelly or persistent, the child may need to stay home from daycare. If the ear continues to run, we recommend using the specialized ear drops provided to you on the day of the procedure.
The ear tube will naturally migrate out of the eardrum and fall into the ear canal after 6 to 12 months. In almost all cases, the tiny membrane opening heals and closes entirely on its own.
Can You Swim and Bathe with Ear Tubes?
Yes. In the vast majority of cases, children can safely bathe, shower, and swim with ear tubes. According to the national clinical guidelines from the Danish Health Authority (Sundhedsstyrelsen), earplugs or custom ear protection are generally not required for normal swimming and bathing.
However, if your child is diving deep underwater, or if the ear is actively draining fluid, you should follow your specialist's specific advice. If you are ever in doubt, our team can guide you during your follow-up check-ups.
What is a Perforated Eardrum, and is it Related to Ear Tubes?
A perforated eardrum is a tear or hole in the membrane, most often caused by a severe middle ear infection where pressure builds up until the eardrum ruptures. This rupture usually brings immediate pain relief and fluid drainage, and the hole typically heals on its own.
An ear tube acts as a controlled, temporary "perforation" that safely relieves this pressure before the eardrum is forced to rupture naturally. If a natural rupture fails to heal or occurs repeatedly, it can be surgically treated by our specialists.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
You should consult a specialist if you or your child experience persistent hearing loss, chronic ear pressure, or delayed speech development. For acute, severe ear pain accompanied by a high fever, contact your general practitioner (GP) or emergency services immediately.
If your child already has ear tubes and the ear has been actively draining fluid for more than a few days, please contact Charlottenlund Privathospital for guidance on using prescribed ear drops.
Ear Tube Treatment at Charlottenlund Privathospital
At Charlottenlund Privathospital, ear tube insertions are performed on an outpatient basis by highly experienced ENT specialists. We safely place ear tubes in pediatric patients from 3 months of age, supported by an expert anesthesia team specializing in the care of young children.
Please visit our departments page to view our services or schedule a consultation with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eardrum drainage?
A small tube (tubulation) placed in the eardrum to drain fluid from the middle ear and create normal pressure. It is used mostly in children, but also in adults.
When is drainage necessary?
In case of persistent fluid in the middle ear with hearing loss for more than three months, delayed speech or repeated middle ear infections, this should always be assessed by a specialist.
How is the construction going?
The specialist makes a small opening in the eardrum, sucks out the fluid and inserts the drain. In children this is done under general anesthesia, in adults usually under local anesthesia. It takes a few minutes.
From what age can children get drains?
At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, drains are placed in children as young as 3 months old.
Does it hurt to get drains?
No. In children, it is done under full anesthesia, so the child does not feel anything during the procedure. There is rarely any pain afterwards if the drain is working.
Is it allowed to swim and bathe with drains?
Yes, in most cases. According to the Danish Health Authority, earplugs are not normally needed for regular bathing and swimming. Follow the specialist's advice when diving underwater.
How long does the drain stay in place?
The drain falls out on its own after 6-12 months, and the hole in the eardrum usually closes afterwards.
What do I do if my ear starts to drain?
Discharge from the ear is common with a cold. Start using the ear drops you have been given. If it persists for more than a few days, contact the clinic.
Does it hurt when the drain falls out?
No. The drain will loosen and fall out of the ear canal on its own, and the child usually does not notice it.
What happens if a hole is left in the eardrum?
In the vast majority of cases, the hole closes on its own. In rare cases, a small hole remains, which can be assessed and, if necessary, treated by a specialist.
Read also about
- Fluid in the middle ear and chronic otitis media
- Removal of childhood polyps (adenotomy)
- Sleep problems, snoring and sleep apnea in children
- Ear, nose and throat