Grommets are often used for children/tamariki who have glue ear or lots of ear infections.
Grommets are placed in the ear during a brief (10–15 minute) operation by a specialist surgeon done under general anaesthetic. A small incision in the eardrum is made and a grommet is put in place to hold it open and allow drainage. Usually, grommets will stay in place for 6–18 months and drop out by themselves.
Parents generally report an immediate improvement in their child's hearing, and sleeping, and general behaviour can also improve. Some children need the procedure to be repeated if they are continuing to have ear problems.
To learn more about grommets, go to KidsHealth.(external link)
