Are water precautions necessary after tympanostomy tube placement?

BACKGROUND Tympanostomy tube insertion is one of the most commonly performed pediatric procedures in the United States. In an effort to reduce the incidence of postoperative otorrhea, many surgeons have traditionally recommended strict avoidance of water exposure to the ears. A number of studies have questioned the efficacy of such recommendations. Here we examine the evidence regarding water precautions and post-tympanostomy tube otorrhea.