Factors associated with retained tympanostomy tubes a case-controlled study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine factors associated with retained tympanostomy tubes in order to improve parent counseling on procedure risks and outcomes.

METHODS

This is a case-control study; we conducted a retrospective chart review from 2012 to 2019 of cases of retained tympanostomy tubes compared to controls with confirmed tympanostomy tube extrusion. The study was conducted at a single tertiary care center, Boston Medical Center. A retained tympanostomy tube was defined as in place for more than two years requiring removal in the operating room. Cases were matched to two controls and assessed for the following factors: indication for tympanostomy tube insertion, frequency of otitis media and otorrhea after tympanostomy tube insertion, duration tympanostomy tubes were in place, numbered set of tympanostomy tubes, sinopulmonary conditions, and adenoidectomy status prior to tympanostomy tube removal or extrusion.

RESULTS

46 cases were identified and matched to 92 controls. Cases had a significantly longer tympanostomy tube duration (3.273, IQR 1.099 vs 1.611, IQR 0.894 years, p < 0.001). The indication for tympanostomy tube placement for cases compared to controls was significantly more likely to be recurrent otitis media only (odds ratio 2.36, CI 1.121 to 5.003). A multiple logistic regression model was performed with the indication for tympanostomy tube placement (chronic or recurrent otitis media) and a history of more than two sets of tympanostomy tubes. The model had a low sensitivity, 9.09%, and high specificity, 98.91%.

CONCLUSION

Patients whose only indication for surgery is recurrent otitis media are possibly at higher risk for retained tympanostomy tubes that require removal in the operating room.