GROMMET INSERTION 

Operation time: 10 Mins

Anaesthesia: Local or General

Admission: Day case

Grommet insertion is a commonly performed operation to improve ventilation of the middle ear. If the eustachian tube is narrow or blocked, pressure develops within the middle ear leading to distortion of the ear drum or accumulation of fluid behind the ear drum (glue ear). Children or adults with glue ear who struggle with associated hearing loss or infections may benefit significantly from grommet insertion, which often improves hearing immediately following surgery.

Grommets usually last between 6-9 months before naturally extruding from the ear in most cases.

POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

• Ears need to be kept dry to minimise the risk of infection

• Consider using cotton wool when showering or earplugs when swimming