Ear Tube Insertion (Grommets)
A ventilation tube (grommet) is a tiny tube placed in the eardrum. Its job is to ventilate the middle ear and let trapped fluid drain. It is one of the most frequently performed operations of childhood, and in well-selected patients the results are extremely rewarding.
Who needs tubes?
- Middle ear fluid lasting more than 3 months and affecting hearing (glue ear)
- Recurrent acute otitis media (3 or more episodes in 6 months, or 4+ in a year)
- Retraction and structural deterioration of the eardrum
- Treatment-resistant or complicated infections
How is the operation performed?
In children, under brief general anaesthesia, a millimetric incision is made in the eardrum under the microscope (myringotomy), fluid is suctioned out and the tube is placed. It takes only a few minutes per ear, there is no skin incision, and the child goes home the same day. If the adenoids are enlarged, removing them in the same session markedly reduces recurrence. In adults the procedure can be done under local anaesthesia in the office.
After the operation
- Pain is minimal or absent; most children return to school the next day.
- Hearing usually improves immediately — parents often say "it's as if the ear opened up".
- Tubes are extruded by themselves after 6–12 months on average; the eardrum usually heals over.
- Bathing and swimming are generally not a problem, but for diving or dirty/soapy water your doctor may advise earplugs.
- If a tubed ear discharges, don't panic — see your doctor for drop treatment.
What if tubes are not placed?
Persistent fluid increases the risk of speech delay, poor school performance, eardrum retraction and, in later years, permanent ear damage (chronic otitis, cholesteatoma). The decision is individual for every child; follow-up and timing should be planned together with your specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ear tubes (grommets) and what do they do?
A ventilation tube (grommet) is a tiny tube placed in the eardrum. Its job is to ventilate the middle ear and let trapped fluid drain out.
Which children need ear tubes?
Tubes are considered for middle ear fluid lasting more than 3 months and affecting hearing, for recurrent acute otitis media (3 or more episodes in 6 months or 4+ in a year), and for retraction of the eardrum. Treatment-resistant or complicated infections are another reason.
How is ear tube surgery performed?
In children, under brief general anaesthesia, a millimetric incision is made in the eardrum under the microscope, the fluid is suctioned out and the tube is placed. It takes only a few minutes per ear, there is no skin incision, and the child goes home the same day; in adults it can be done under local anaesthesia in the office.
How long do ear tubes stay in and do they fall out on their own?
Tubes are extruded by themselves after 6-12 months on average, and the eardrum usually heals over. Hearing typically improves immediately after the operation, and most children return to school the next day.
What happens if ear tubes are not placed?
Persistent middle ear fluid increases the risk of speech delay, poor school performance, eardrum retraction and, in later years, permanent ear damage such as chronic otitis or cholesteatoma. The decision is individual for every child and should be planned together with your specialist.
Would you like to book an appointment?
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