Extra-annular T tubes: a case series.

OBJECTIVE

to review the efficacy of extra-annular T tubes in a cohort of patients.

DESIGN

case series of 50 patients undergoing 60 extra-annular T-tube insertions.

SETTING

district general hospital.

METHODS

retrospective review of case notes.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: extrusion, chronic perforation after extrusion, infection, occlusion.

RESULTS

Sixteen of 60 tubes extruded at an average of 16 months after insertion. Two tubes had to be removed. One of 18 extruded/removed tubes was associated with a chronic perforation. Seven of 60 tubes became infected during the follow-up period, none of which required removal. Of the 42 tubes that did not extrude or have to be removed, the average follow-up was 23 months.

CONCLUSION

our case series of extra-annular tubes suggests that this procedure is a safe intervention for long-term middle ear ventilation with a low rate of infection and chronic perforation.