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Complications of long-term ventilation tubes

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 March 2013

H Mohammed  and
P Martinez-Devesa
H Mohammed*
Affiliation:
ENT Department, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Oxford, UK
P Martinez-Devesa
Affiliation:
ENT Department, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr H Mohammed, ENT Department, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UY, UK Fax: 01603 287211 E-mail: hmohammed@nhs.net
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Abstract

Objective:

To demonstrate that ventilation tubes can remain in situ much longer than expected, and that the materials used in the manufacturing of these tubes can degrade and cause complications. Long-term follow up and replacement of the tube is recommended.

Method:

Case report and review of the literature concerning the use of long-term ventilation tubes.

Results:

In the case reported, the ventilation tube was in place for 19 years, which resulted in chronic ear discharge. When it was removed, it was noted that the tube itself had degraded and had caused a chronic inflammatory reaction.

Conclusion:

We recommend that the long-term use of ventilation tubes is followed up and that the tube is replaced before material degradation takes place.

Keywords

VentilationMiddle EarTympanostomyGrommet InsertionOtitis MediaComplications
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 127 , Issue 5 , May 2013 , pp. 509 - 510
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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