Complications of long-term ventilation tubes.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate that ventilation tubes can remain in situ much longer than expected, and that the materials used in the manufacturing of these tubes can degrade and cause complications. Long-term follow up and replacement of the tube is recommended.

METHOD: Case report and review of the literature concerning the use of long-term ventilation tubes.

RESULTS: In the case reported, the ventilation tube was in place for 19 years, which resulted in chronic ear discharge. When it was removed, it was noted that the tube itself had degraded and had caused a chronic inflammatory reaction.

CONCLUSION: We recommend that the long-term use of ventilation tubes is followed up and that the tube is replaced before material degradation takes place.