What are they? They are tiny tubes about two millimeters in diameter inserted into the eardrum to treat conditions affecting the middle ear. What causes them Examples of the conditions whose treatment is the insertion of grommets are recurrent ear infections caused by fluid build up in the ear, not only is it painful but if left untreated the eardrum can rupture. Glue ear, on the other hand, may present those symptoms or may just feel like a blocked ear. These diseases can affect one or both ears. At the moment there are no other procedures to alleviate these conditions. Who is more susceptible to diseases requiring this treatment While children under six are the most likely to suffer from these diseases as their inner ears are shorter and easily get blocked there are cases of even adults needing the procedure. A host of things from allergies to repeated colds even having a sibling already suffering can lead to ear infections and glue ear. How they are inserted They are inserted in the eardrum in a small procedure which takes about fifteen minutes to insert under local anesthetic. Other medication may be introduced during the operation such as antibiotics to help with inflammation. How does the Grommet alleviate the conditions The inserting of the device will not only allow the drainage of fluid from the middle ear but allows air into the ear to prevent future build up. Pre-op Guidelines As it is done under local anesthetic the usual preoperation procedures are applicable.
The patient will be watched for a short period of time and depending on their bodies reactions to the anesthetic may feel or even be sick once the effects wear off and the patient is comfortable about four or so hours they may go home. Outpatient medication may be prescribed such as painkillers and eardrops. Post Op Guidelines
In the first weeks at home, the patient will need to be monitored for
The use of grommets is at the moment the most effective way of relieving conditions or diseases affecting the inner ear. It is a one-day surgery with few complications and side effects. The only drawback is the extensive aftercare as it takes up to nine months for them to be thrust out the ear.
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February 2019
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