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A tympanostomy tube (also known as a grommet, T-tube, ear tube, pressure equalization tube, vent, PE tube or myringotomy tube) is a small tube inserted into the eardrum in order to keep the middle ear aerated for a prolonged period of time, and to prevent the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear. The operation to insert the tube involves a myringotomy and is performed under local or general anesthesia. The tube itself is made in a variety of designs. The most commonly used type is shaped like a grommet. When it is necessary to keep the middle ear ventilated for a very long period, a "T"-shaped tube may be used, as these "T-tubes" can stay in place for 2-4 years. Materials used to construct the tube are most often plastics such as silicone or Teflon. Stainless steel tubes exist, but are no longer in frequent use. ==Indications== Guidelines state that tubes are an option in: # Recurrent acute otitis media: 3 ear infections in 6 months or 4 infections in a year. The evidence for this recommendation; however, is weak.〔 # Chronic otitis media with persistent effusion for 6 months (one ear) or 3 months (both ears). # Persistent eustachian tube dysfunction # Barotrauma: Especially for prevention of recurrent episodes (e.g., after air travel, hyperbaric chamber treatment). 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Tympanostomy tube」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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