ENT - Grommet Insertion

What we do

A grommet is a tiny tube made of either plastic or titanium, which is inserted into the eardrum to allow airflow between the external ear and the middle ear. This helps to equalise the pressure in the middle ear and can improve hearing.
 

Why do I need a grommet?

A grommet is usually suggested to treat Glue Ear.

Glue ear is when you get a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum which stops the hearing bones in your middle ear from conducting sound as well as they normally should. By reducing the pressure in the middle ear with a grommet, the fluid does not build up and the middle ear is able to work properly.

How is a grommet inserted?

A grommet is usually put into the eardrum under a local anaesthetic. The ear drum is numbed, and a very quick procedure is performed to insert the grommet and clean the ear. Once the procedure is completed and you feel well, you can go home.

Some patients choose to have the grommet inserted under a general anaesthetic. This means the patient is asleep at the time of the procedure. After the procedure, patients are expected to stay in hospital for 2 hours to make sure that they are well after the anaesthetic.

Are there any complications/risks?

The risks of having a grommet inserted are minimal and quite rare. You may develop an infection in the middle ear (behind your ear drum) which is usually easily treated by your GP. When the grommet falls out, there is a chance that it will leave a small hole in your eardrum. This usually heals with time but can occasionally remain in place.

How long does a grommet last?

A grommet can last between approximately 3 months and 1 year (sometimes longer). The grommet is usually pushed out by the eardrum and often falls out of the ear naturally with wax. This is a painless process, and most people don’t know that it has happened unless their original symptoms come back.

Can I swim with a grommet in?

We usually advise that you avoid swimming for 6 weeks after a grommet insertion and that you plug your ear with cotton wool coated in Vaseline to prevent water entering the ear whilst showering.

Contact

If you have any questions or problems, please call 0161 206 4758