Grommet insertion

This video clipping shows a grommet being inserted. Grommets are small tubes which are inserted into the middle ear through a small incision over the pars tensa portion of the tympanic membrane. This tube is also known as ventialtion tubes, serves to ventilate the middle ear space.

Indications for grommet insertion:

1. Secretory otitis media which is refractory to medical management.

2. Adhesive otitis media

3. Middle ear effusion

This surgical procedure can be performed either under general / local anesthesia.

After grommet insertion the tube remains in place for atleast 3 weeks during which time the eustachean tube should have resumed its function.

After insertion the patient should not be allowed to swim before the middle ear recovers and the grommet gets extruded.