Grommets

What is Grommets? 

A grommet is a tiny plastic or metal tube about 1.5 – 2 mm wide. 

A grommet is a tiny tube that is inserted into the eardrum to allow air to enter the middle ear. The grommet does the work that the poorly functioning Eustachian tube should be doing, giving the middle ear a chance to recover.  

Grommets cause no discomfort while in place. They usually fall out on their own in 6 to 12 months, leaving the drum intact. 

 Dr. Grundlingh may suggest inserting grommets if your child has had glue ear for at least 3 months and has associated problems with their hearing. For children with recurrent ear infections, grommets may help prevent recurring infections. 

Inserting a grommet involves a simple surgical procedure called myringotomy, where a small cut is made in the eardrum and any fluid is suctioned out. The grommets, also known as ventilation tubes, or tympanostomy tubes, are then inserted into the eardrums to drain fluid and ventilate the middle ear. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes.  

The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic, and is usually done as a day only procedure – your child will not usually need to stay overnight in hospital. 

Most children recover well from the operation to insert grommets. You should see your doctor if your child experiences pain, or any discharge from the ear that lasts for more than 5 days. 

To avoid getting an ear infection, your doctor may suggest that your child avoids getting their ears wet with water that may have germs, such as bath water. Earplugs may be necessary when bathing and showering. 

Earplugs are not usually necessary when swimming. Swimming should be avoided altogether for the first week after the grommets are inserted. If your child develops a discharge from the ears, see your doctor. 

If your child had hearing problems before having grommets, they should have a hearing test soon after the grommets have been inserted to check that their hearing has improved. Most children have a full recovery in their hearing.