Tympanostomy or Pressure Equalization Tubes (PET) are tubes that are placed into the eardrum to allow fluid and pressure to escape into the ear canal. The PET essentially bypasses the natural pressure valve of the middle ear called the eustachian tube. This small tube connects the middle ear with the back of the nose and is lined with the same lining that is found in the inside of the nose. Often patients with nasal problems may present with ear issues such as fluid or problems with flight because of this relationship. Dr. Pasha considers the eustachian tube a part of the nose and often ear problems are actually nasal issues. PETs are a temporary solution for eustachian tube dysfunction.
Dr. Pasha has placed thousands of PETs in the office or during brief general anesthesia in the operating room. An operating microscope is used to look in the ear canal. A small incision is placed in the eardrum, fluid is suctioned out, and the tube is placed into the hole.