Ear Grommets in Children

Of the most common medical issues that plague children, the ear infection is at the top of the list. While ear infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, the insertion of tubes, called ear grommets, into the ears is sometimes necessary when antibiotics do not remove fluid buildup in the ears.

Defintion

• An ear grommet is a plastic tube that relieves chronic ear fluid and subsequent ear infections.

How They Work

• Grommets permit the flow of air in the ear. This air flow would have been blocked by fluid buildup prior to the insertion of the grommets. The additional air flow helps the fluid evaporate, allowing the child to have improved hearing.

Insertion

• The procedure of inserting grommets must be performed in a hospital with general anesthesia. The child can return home the same day the grommets are inserted.

Home Care

• Children with grommets need to wear earplugs when swimming or in the bath to avoid dirty water getting in the ears. The use of earplugs is necessary until the grommets fall out.

Ongoing Medical Care

• Regular doctor visits are required to ensure that grommets have not fallen out prematurely. In addition, a hearing test is recommended for children who have been treated with grommets.