Evidence-Based Interventions: grommets for glue ear in children

Grommets are tiny tubes inserted into the eardrum to allow air to enter the middle ear. They help drain fluid and prevent the build-up of ear infections.

Glue ear, or otitis media with effusion, is a condition where fluid accumulates in the middle ear, leading to hearing problems in children.

Grommets are recommended for children with persistent glue ear that affects their hearing, speech development, or quality of life.

Grommets are typically inserted under general anaesthesia using a minor surgical procedure that involves making a small cut in the eardrum.

The procedure is generally safe and is one of the most common surgeries performed on children. However, like any surgery, it comes with small risks.

Grommets usually stay in place for around 6-12 months before falling out naturally as the eardrum heals.

Most children can swim and bathe with grommets, but it’s best to consult with your doctor. Earplugs or a swimming cap may be recommended to prevent water from entering the middle ear.

Most children experience an immediate improvement in hearing after grommets are inserted, as the middle ear fluid is drained.

If glue ear recurs, a doctor may recommend additional treatments or the reinsertion of grommets. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor your child’s condition.

After the initial surgery, most children do not experience significant pain or discomfort from grommets.

Alternative treatments may include watchful waiting, hearing aids, or other medical interventions. Your doctor will discuss the best options based on your child’s specific condition.

Improvement in hearing and reduction in ear infections are good indicators that the grommets are working. Regular check-ups with your doctor will also help monitor their effectiveness.

While grommet insertion is generally safe, risks can include ear infections, discharge, and, in rare cases, permanent perforation of the eardrum.

By improving hearing, grommets can have a positive impact on speech and language development in children with glue ear.

Typically, you will need a referral from your GP to see an ENT specialist who can assess whether grommets are appropriate for your child.

Glue ear, or otitis media with effusion, is a common condition where the middle ear fills with a sticky, glue-like fluid, affecting hearing.

Grommets are tiny tubes inserted into the eardrum to allow air into the middle ear, helping to clear the fluid associated with glue ear.

Grommets help to ventilate the middle ear, preventing the build-up of fluid and improving hearing in children with glue ear.

Grommets can be inserted in children from as young as a few months old, depending on the severity of their glue ear and associated symptoms.

Grommets are generally effective and significantly improve hearing for many children who suffer from glue ear.

The procedure is typically done under general anaesthesia. A small incision is made in the eardrum to insert the grommet, allowing fluid to drain and air to enter.

Grommets usually stay in place for 6 to 12 months before naturally falling out as the eardrum heals.

As with any surgery, there are risks, though they are generally low. Potential complications include infection, eardrum perforation, and scarring.

Signs that a child may need grommets include persistent hearing loss, frequent ear infections, speech or language delays, and difficulty paying attention.

Yes, grommets can help reduce the frequency of ear infections by ensuring better ventilation and drainage of the middle ear.

Alternatives include watchful waiting, hearing aids, and in some cases, the use of nasal balloons, though grommets are often the preferred intervention.

After surgery, children can typically go home the same day. They may experience mild pain or discomfort, which can be managed with pain relief medications.

Children with grommets can usually swim, but it's advisable to avoid deep diving and consult with a doctor regarding precautions to prevent ear infections.

Follow-up care typically involves regular check-ups to monitor hearing and the position of the grommets, as well as addressing any potential complications.

Parents should contact a doctor if their child experiences persistent pain, discharge from the ear, hearing loss, or fever after grommet insertion.