Insertion of tympanostomy tubes is the most common ambulatory surgery performed on children in the United States.

Tympanostomy tubes are most often inserted because of persistent middle ear fluid, frequent ear infections, or ear infections that persist after antibiotic therapy. All these conditions are encompassed by the term otitis media (middle ear inflammation).

This guideline update provides evidence-based recommendations for patient selection and surgical indications for managing tympanostomy tubes in children.

The guideline is intended for any clinician involved in managing children aged 6 months to 12 years with tympanostomy tubes or children being considered for tympanostomy tubes in any care setting as an intervention for otitis media of any type.

The target audience includes specialists, primary care clinicians, and allied health professionals.