What are grommets really?

Grommets are very, very small plastic or metal tubes that are inserted into a child’s eardrum to allow air to get in and out of the ear by draining fluid in the middle ear. The build-up of the thick, sticky fluid is called glue ear. Glue ear can be caused by the reoccurrence of middle ear infections, which is common in childhood, but may also affect adults too.

When are grommets used?

Grommets are normally recommended for glue ear that won’t clear up or for frequent ear infections. They may also be recommended if the child has had:

• Glue ear for more than three months
• Acute ear infections in a pace of a year, especially if the infection has occurred in both ears.
• Previous complications due to an ear infection.

The insertion of grommets is done under general anaesthesia, and the surgeon makes a small incision on the eardrum. He will then insert the grommet into the incision. After the operation, the child may be unsettled for a while. Ear protection is required when using water, especially when swimming, shampooing, showering and bathing. Some children may have ear discharge after the operation, which is not usually painful and can be treated with ear drops. The insertion of grommets helps improve the child’s hearing. If the discharge continues for prolonged periods, seek medical attention.