Grommets, which are also called ventilation tubes, ear grommets, or tympanostomy tubes, are tiny plastic tubes that are inserted into the eardrum through a small slit. This is usually done by a short operation under general anesthesia in small children and can also be done under local anesthesia in adults when required. Grommet insertion in the ear is a common procedure that helps manage chronic ear problems. This treatment is widely offered at Ascent ENT Hospital, a trusted name in ENT care across South India.

Grommets are usually required in a condition called glue ear, which causes decreased hearing due to fluid accumulation behind the eardrum and persists even after adequate medical treatment. Grommets drain the fluid accumulated behind the eardrum and also allow air entry into the middle ear, thereby improving hearing. In some cases, glue ear balloon treatment may be used in conjunction with other therapies to address the condition effectively. Ascent ENT Hospital Palakkad specializes in the diagnosis and management of glue ear in children.

Glue ear is usually seen in small children due to repeated ear infection and those with enlarged Adenoids. (Adenoids are lymphoid tissue seen normally at the back of the nose, when enlarged can lead to glue ear.). In such cases, removal of adenoids which is called ADENOIDECTOMY may also be required along with grommet insertion. Glue ear should be suspected if a child shows symptoms like speaking loudly, asking to repeat what was said, struggling to hear when speaking from a distance, or keeping TV or music at high volume. If glue ear is not treated, it may affect the learning and normal development of the child.

Grommets usually fall out naturally on their own within three to twelve months once the underlying condition improves and ventilation of the ear becomes normal. The slit in the eardrum usually heals on its own. Grommet ear operation is usually not associated with any pain in the ear, and most patients can be discharged home the same day after the procedure. Some children may have a little discharge from their ear after the procedure, which is normal. Care should be taken to prevent water from entering the ear after the procedure as it may cause infection — if it occurs, it can be treated easily with the use of ear drops.

Overall, ear grommets surgery or grommet ear tube insertion is a very easy, convenient, and effective method to improve hearing in patients with glue ear, which gives the patient a good quality of life.

Grommets, also known as tympanostomy tubes, are small devices that are inserted into the eardrum to treat a variety of ear conditions. They are typically made of plastic or metal and come in a range of sizes. Grommets are used to treat several conditions, including recurrent middle ear infections, glue ear, and hearing loss. They work by allowing air to flow through the middle ear, relieving pressure, and preventing the build-up of fluid. The grommet tube helps in maintaining normal middle ear function.

Ascent ENT Hospital Calicut is renowned for its modern ENT facilities and a team of experienced Ascent ENT doctors who provide comprehensive ear care, from diagnosis to post-operative follow-up.

Ear grommet side effects are generally minimal but may include occasional ear discharge or blockage. Eardrum grommets typically fall out naturally, but if complications arise, glue ear removal may be recommended as part of follow-up care. The advanced care at Ascent ENT ensures a smooth recovery for both children and adults.

Tube grommet procedures and grommet ear operations are routinely carried out at Ascent ENT Hospital, offering patients in Calicut, Palakkad, and beyond a reliable solution for long-term ear health.