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Ear tube insertion Description:
While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small incision is made in the ear drum and the accumulated fluid is suctioned out. A small tube may be inserted through the eardrum incision to allow fluid to continuously flow out and air to enter and dry out the middle ear. Because the incision heals without sutures, the hole closes and the ear tubes fall out naturally after a few months.
Indications:
Ear drum tube insertion may be recommended for: symptoms:
What to Expect After:
The operation relieves pain, and hearing is restored. The frequency and severity of middle ear infections is significantly reduced. If ear infections recur, the operation can be repeated and another ear tube can be inserted.
Convalescence:
Patients usually leave the hospital the same day. Swimming is prohibited unless special ear plugs are worn. Use of a cap while under a shower is recommended for several days or weeks.
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are: Risks for any surgery are: Additional risks include:
Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.
The cost of this surgery is approximately $1,700 to $2,800.
Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.
1. Surgeon's fee: variable
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.
Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.
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