Grommets

What are grommets?

Grommets are tiny plastic ventilation tubes that are rimmed at the end. They’re inserted into the eardrum to equalise pressure in the ear.

Why is it done?

The middle ear is normally air-filled and is typically at the same pressure as the outer ear, on the other side of the ear drum, because air pressure is equalised via a small ventilation tube called the Eustachian Tube. When this tube is blocked or not working properly, patients can get problems with their eardrum or fluid can accumulate in the middle ear. Glue ear (thick fluid trapped in the middle ear) or recurrent middle ear infections are the most common reasons that grommets are inserted. Children are most often affected, but adults can be too.

Because grommets allow air in from the outside, enabling fluid and mucus to drain normally, they improve hearing immediately and help to prevent repeated ear infections.

Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.