Terminology and Synonyms
The formal medical terminology is tympanostomy tube, which refers to a tube surgically placed through a myringotomy incision in the tympanic membrane (eardrum) for temporary middle ear ventilation 2.
Accepted Alternative Terms:
- Ventilation tubes - emphasizes the tube's function of allowing air to enter the middle ear 1, 2
- Pressure equalization (PE) tubes - highlights the pressure regulation function 2, 3
- Grommets - commonly used term in the United Kingdom 1, 2
- Myringotomy tubes - references the surgical incision through which they're placed 4
- BMT (Bilateral Myringotomy and Tubes) - when placed in both ears 2, 3
Physical Characteristics
The tympanostomy tube is approximately 1/20th of an inch in width and occupies only a small portion of the tympanic membrane, which is roughly the size of a dime 1, 5, 2. Modern tubes are constructed from fluoroplastic or silicone elastomers rather than the original metal designs 4.
Duration and Design
Tympanostomy tubes generally last several months to several years, depending on tube design and placement location in the tympanic membrane 1, 2. The two basic designs are short-term tubes (mean function time of 6-12 months) and long-term tubes 3, 6.
The term "tympanostomy tube" is the preferred medical terminology in clinical documentation and professional communication 1, 2.