We typically insert tubes for one of three reasons:

• Recurrent infections (most common reason)
• Prolonged hearing loss
• Worrisome changes to the eardrum that, if allowed to progress, would require more extensive surgery

We prefer ventilation tubes over chronic or recurrent use of antibiotics. If a child retains an effusion and conductive hearing loss for more than two to three months, we consider using tubes because hearing well during the formative years is so important. Worrisome changes to the eardrum are fairly rare, but warrant immediate intervention.