Risks

Ear tube placement is a relatively safe procedure with a low risk of serious complications. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding and infection
• Persistent fluid drainage
• Blocked tubes from blood, mucus or other secretions
• Scarring or weakening of the eardrum
• Tubes falling out too early or staying in too long
• Failure of the eardrum to close after the tube falls out or is removed

Anesthesia

Surgery for ear tube placement usually requires general anesthesia. Although the risks of anesthesia are very low in otherwise healthy children, possible problems include:

• Nausea or vomiting after the procedure
• Breathing difficulties
• Allergic reaction
• Irregular heartbeats