The Tula System is a method used to insert a tympanostomy tube (ear tube) into the eardrum under local anesthesia. This is achieved using the Tula Iontophoresis System and TYMBION, which is a combination of an amide local anesthetic and an alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist. Essentially, it's a system that delivers a local anesthetic to the eardrum, allowing for a minimally invasive ear tube insertion procedure to be performed in an office setting.
The key components are:
- Tula Iontophoresis System: This system uses an electrical current to deliver the anesthetic medication, TYMBION, directly into the eardrum. This process is called iontophoresis.
- TYMBION: This is a proprietary drug solution containing both a local anesthetic (to numb the area) and an alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist (to constrict blood vessels, reducing bleeding and improving visualization during the procedure).
The Tula System offers a less invasive alternative to traditional ear tube surgery, which often requires general anesthesia, especially for children.