Ear Tubes (cont.)
What happens before surgery?
In most situations, the surgery is performed as an outpatient (no overnight stay usually required), at either the hospital or an outpatient surgery center. An anesthesiologist will monitor your child throughout the procedure. Usually, the anesthesiologist reviews the medical history before surgery. If your doctor has ordered preoperative laboratory studies, arrange to have these done several days in advance.
If your child is old enough to understand what surgery is, be honest and up front as you explain the upcoming surgery. A calming and reassuring attitude will greatly ease your child's anxiety. Most children will feel better having had the pressure relieved in their ears.
Your child must not eat or drink anything 6 to 12 hours prior to their time of surgery;
this includes even water or chewing gum. Anything in the stomach increases the chances of an anesthetic complication.
If your child is sick or has a fever the day before
surgery, call the office. If your child wakes up sick the day
of surgery, still proceed to the surgical facility as planned.
Your doctor will decide if it is safe to proceed with surgery.
However, if your child has chickenpox, do not bring your child
to the office or to the surgical facility.
What to do the day of surgery?
It is important that you know precisely what time
you are to check-in with the surgical facility, and that you allow
sufficient preparation time. Bring the required papers and
forms with you, including the preoperative orders and history
sheets. Your child should wear comfortable loose fitting clothes
(pajamas are permissible). Leave all jewelry and valuables at
home. They may bring a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or blanket.
Next: What happens during surgery? »
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