Tympanostomy Tube Innovation: Advances in Device Material, Design, and Office-Based Technology

Abstract

Objectives: With tympanostomy tube insertion remaining the most common procedure performed in children to date, growing interests in minimizing both procedural costs and anesthetic exposure in the pediatric population have inspired innovation with respect to tympanostomy tubes. As such, we aim to discuss the current state of tympanostomy tube innovation including insertion devices, tube material, and design. Methods: Computerized literature review. Results: (1) Numerous single-use devices consisting of a myringotomy knife and preloaded tympanostomy tube offer potential advantages of decreasing or eliminating operating room time and may be performed under moderate instead of a general anesthetic. (2) Innovation with respect to tympanostomy tube material and design may offer enhanced ototopical drug delivery, decreased rates of tube occlusion, and/or the ability to dissolve “on-command” with application of a novel ototopical material. (3) These technologies currently remain in various phases of preclinical and clinical testing. Conclusions: While clinical testing for a number of new technologies is preliminary and ongoing, tympanostomy tube-related innovations hold exciting promise to supplement or potentially replace the present-day armamentarium of tympanostomy tube design and insertion moving forward.