Overview
Grommets are small tubes inserted through the eardrum to allow ventilation of the middle ear, the airspace behind the eardrum. For the ear to work normally, this space needs to contain air at normal atmospheric pressure. There are different designs of grommets; most commonly short- to medium-stay designs are used, though on occasion long-stay grommets may be required.
Short- to medium-stay grommets last on average 9 to 12 months, though they may extrude earlier or last up to 2 years. On rare occasions they do not come out by themselves and may need to be removed. Long-stay grommets are designed to remain in place for several years.
Who It Helps
Grommets are indicated for
- Recurrent middle ear infections
- Persistent fluid in the middle ear (glue ear)
- Eustachian tube dysfunction or recurrent barotrauma
What Happens
In Children
A simple procedure performed as day surgery. General anaesthesia is administered via a gaseous technique - no breathing tubes or needles are required in most cases. Using a microscope, a small incision is placed in the eardrum and the grommet is positioned through it.
In Adults
In most cases this can be performed under topical anaesthesia in the consulting room, without the need for hospitalisation and no injections required. Occasionally, narrow or difficult ear canals may require day surgery under general anaesthesia. Return to normal activities is usually immediate.
Recovery Information
Pain Relief
Pain is not normally a major problem following grommets. One or two doses of paracetamol may be required. It is not unusual for adults to report dullness or a blocked feeling in the ear for a few days.
Flying
Having a functioning grommet makes flying easier, as it allows free flow of air between the middle ear and the atmosphere so pressure trauma does not occur. In most cases flying should be possible by the next day.
Discharge From The Ear
Grommets let air into the middle ear rather than facilitating drainage, so a mucoid discharge usually indicates infection. It will normally settle with antibiotic ear drops - contact the rooms or your GP if you notice discharge.
After Surgery
You or your child will need 1-2 days off work or school to allow a full recovery, and should avoid swimming pool activities until the post-operative appointment. Swimming may resume afterwards using adequate ear plugs and a head band or cap; diving underwater should be avoided even with plugged ears.
Follow-up
Discharge from the ears occurs in roughly 15-20% of patients with grommets, usually from water exposure or an upper respiratory infection. The first follow-up appointment is normally within 2 to 3 weeks of surgery.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
Detailed aftercare guidance for your surgery, to keep and refer back to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do grommets last?
Short to medium-stay grommets last on average 9 to 12 months, though they may extrude early or last up to 2 years. Long-stay grommets are designed to remain in place for several years.
Will my child need a general anaesthetic?
Yes, in children this is performed as day surgery under a gaseous general anaesthetic, with no breathing tubes or needles required in most cases.
Do adults need a hospital admission?
In most cases the procedure can be performed under topical anaesthesia in the consulting room, without hospitalisation. Occasionally, narrow or difficult ear canals require day surgery under general anaesthesia.
When should I call the doctor after surgery?
If you or your child experience ear discharge, fever, or severe pain that doesn't respond to the prescribed analgesics, please attend the Emergency Department of the hospital where the surgery was performed.