A retrospective review of Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tubes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide data on ear tube extrusion and complication rates for patients who have Paparella Type 1 tympanostomy tube (TT) placement.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of patients 6 months to 12 years old who underwent insertion of Paparella Type 1 TT by a single surgeon.

RESULTS

Of 197 tubes evaluated, 3% were plugged between 1 and 3 months after surgery. Of the 144 tubes evaluated long-term, all tubes extruded within 4 years. There were no tympanic membrane perforations.

CONCLUSIONS

This chart review showed expected rate of initial ear tube plugging. The rate of tympanic membrane perforation was lower than expected.