Myringotomy / Grommet
What happens during surgery?
Surgery will normally be carried out under a local anaesthetic. During the operation the surgeon will be using very small, precision instruments while looking at the area through a microscope.
Depending on the exact nature of the condition, slightly different operations may be required.
What should I expect after surgery?
There may be some pain after the anaesthetic wears off and we’ll help relieve this with painkillers. Before you go home we’ll discuss any aftercare requirements or follow-up appointments with you.
If you’ve had ear tubes (grommets) inserted, they normally work their way out of your eardrum naturally after six weeks to 18 months.
What treatment options are available?
Depending on the exact nature of the condition, we’ll discuss the different treatment options with you.
Myringotomy is a surgical procedure where a small cut is made in the eardrum to relieve pressure caused by fluid or pus in the middle ear, or to take a sample of fluid for diagnosis, or to insert ear tubes (grommets). Sometimes, tiny ear ventilation tubes (or grommets) can be placed in the incision. These tubes remain in position after the operation to allow fluid to continue to drain out of the ear more easily, and to allow antibiotic drops to be placed directly into the middle ear space which makes their application more effective.