New ear tube position may reduce surgery risks for kids

NCT ID NCT06191562

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at where ear tubes are placed in children with ear infections. Normally, tubes go in the front part of the eardrum, but this trial places them in the back part in one ear to see if it lowers the risk of a hole that won't heal. About 386 children will be followed for up to 3 years to compare complications like drainage, blockage, and persistent holes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

tympanostomy tube (ear tube)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that placing ear tubes in a different spot on the eardrum reduces the chance of a hole that won't close, making future repairs easier.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study comparing two surgical techniques, not testing a new drug. The benefit may be small, and results may not apply to all children.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

infectious otitis media otitis media otitis media with effusion

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15224, United States

  • UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh North

    Sewickley, Pennsylvania, 15143, United States