Ear infections in children are the most common reason families visit their pediatrician’s office each year in the United States. In fact, 75% of pediatric patients will have at least one ear infection by the time they are 3 years old, and 1 in 15 children will have ear tubes placed.
Ear tube placement is often recommended for children with recurrent ear infections. This procedure helps create proper air flow to the ear and reduces fluid buildup while greatly decreasing the likelihood of future ear infections.
Most commonly, ear tube placement is performed in an operating room setting and involves fasting, general anesthesia, and post-recovery care and monitoring. Parents also undergo the challenge of managing the stress associated with surgery for their child, as well as costs that are often significant.
