Recurrent ear infections and persistent fluid in the middle ear can lead to hearing issues and discomfort—especially in children. When these problems don’t resolve with medications, ear tubes (also known as tympanostomy tubes) may be recommended to help restore proper ear function.
At San Francisco Otolaryngology, we’re proud to offer a safe, in-office alternative to traditional ear tube surgery: the Tula® System. This breakthrough technology allows our ENT specialists to place ear tubes right here in our San Francisco offices, without the need for general anesthesia or a hospital visit.
What Is the Tula System?
The Tula System (Tympanostomy Under Local Anesthesia) is an FDA-approved, innovative treatment that enables ear tube placement using local anesthesia and a specialized delivery system. Designed for both children and adults, it’s performed comfortably and safely during a routine office visit at San Francisco Otolaryngology.
How It Works
Local Numbing with Iontophoresis
A mild electric current delivers numbing medication to the eardrum, ensuring a pain-free experience. This step takes about 10 minutes.
Precise Tube Insertion with the Tula Delivery System
Once the ear is numb, our ENT specialist uses a handheld device to make a tiny opening in the eardrum (myringotomy) and insert the ear tube—quickly and accurately.
The entire appointment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, and most patients—especially children—can resume normal activities the same day.
Benefits of the Tula System at San Francisco Otolaryngology
- No general anesthesia required
- In-office procedure—no hospital or surgery center
- Lower cost and risk than traditional surgery
- Same-day recovery—kids can return to school or play
- Parents can stay with their child during the procedure
- Convenient locations throughout San Francisco
Who Is a Candidate?
Tula is a great option for:
- Children with frequent ear infections
- Adults or kids with persistent fluid in the middle ear
- Patients for whom general anesthesia may pose a higher risk
A comprehensive evaluation at San Francisco Otolaryngology will help determine if the Tula System is the right solution for you or your child.
The Tula® difference
Important safety notes
The Tula System is intended to create a myringotomy and insert a tympanostomy tube using the Tula Tube Delivery System in pediatric (aged 6 months and older) and adult patients indicated to receive tympanostomy tubes. The Tula System is used to deliver a tympanostomy tube under local anesthesia induced using the Tula Iontophoresis System and TYMBION™, a combination of an amide local anesthetic and an alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist. Contraindications include certain abnormal ear anatomy, sensitivity/allergy to lidocaine or other local anesthetics, and reliance on electrically sensitive medical implants such as a pacemaker. Risks may include, but are not limited to, inadequate local anesthesia, dizziness, and common tympanostomy procedure risks. For full prescribing information, see the Tula IFU and TYMBION Drug Package Insert at www.tulatubes.com/IFU. Rx only.
The information presented about the Tula System is for educational, informational, and illustrative purposes only. It does not constitute and is not a substitute for medical advice and does not provide any indication, guide, or guarantee as to the response a child may have during a Tula System procedure.
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