Endoscopic Ear & Otology
Grommets
Grommets, also known as tympanostomy tubes or ear tubes, are tiny cylindrical devices inserted into the eardrum (tympanic membrane) to treat conditions affecting the middle ear. Grommets are primarily used to ventilate and equalise pressure within the middle ear. They create a small hole in the eardrum, allowing air to enter the middle ear space and preventing fluid buildup.
Indications
They are commonly used to manage conditions such as:
Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) – aka serous otitis media (SOM) - persistent fluid in the middle ear after acute infections
Recurrent Acute Otitis Media - frequent ear infections causing fluid accumulation
Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media - persistent ear infections with perforation of the eardrum
Barotrauma - ear pressure problems, often experienced during air travel or scuba diving
Delayed speech issues
During Surgery
Grommets are inserted during a brief surgical procedure called a myringotomy or tympanostomy. This involves making a small incision in the eardrum under general anaesthesia or sedation. The grommet tube is then placed into the incision in the eardrum. It remains in place for a period, typically ranging from a few months to a few years, depending on the type of grommet used. Insertion of the tubes is a safe procedure; in children, it is done under a general anaesthetic and they can go home in about an hour after the surgery. For adults, the insertion can take place in the rooms itself under local anaesthetic.
By allowing fluid to drain from the middle ear and restoring proper air pressure, grommets can reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections, and often lead to improved hearing in patients with conductive hearing loss (due to fluid buildup).
After Surgery
As part of postoperative care, patients may need to keep the ears dry during bathing or swimming to prevent infection. Regular check-ups with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) are essential to monitor the condition of the grommets and assess the ear's health. In many cases, grommets will naturally fall out of the eardrum as it heals. This process typically occurs within 6 to 18 months after insertion. If they do not or if there are complications, they may need to be surgically removed.
