Grommets are small plastic tubes with a hole in the centre (like a tiny cotton reel) that are inserted into the eardrum during a short operation. They are often called 'air vents' as the hole in the grommet allows fresh air to pass into the middle ear. This reduces the risk of fluid build-up behind the eardrum and gives ear infections a chance to clear up as pus can drain out through the hole in the grommet.
Key points about grommets:
- Grommets are often used for children/tamariki who have glue ear or lots of ear infections.
- Grommets are placed in the ear during a brief (10–15 minute) operation by a specialist surgeon done under general anaesthetic.
- A small incision in the eardrum is made and a grommet is put in place to hold it open and allow drainage.
- Usually, grommets will stay in place for 6–18 months and drop out by themselves.
- Parents generally report an immediate improvement in their child's hearing, and sleeping, and general behaviour can also improve.
- Some children need the procedure to be repeated if they are continuing to have ear problems.
To learn more about grommets, go to KidsHealth.
Image credit: 123rf
Glue ear – an animation
A very detailed animation describing glue ear. Click the image below and scroll to the bottom of the page to view the animation.
References
Grommets KidsHealth, NZ
Clinician guidelines
Otitis media – a common childhood illness BPAC, NZ, 2012
Otitis media with effusion in under 12s – surgery NICE, UK