Brief Answer:
Safe, simple procedure. Can be avoided if you really insist.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

1. Grommet Insertion is a safe procedure. It is one of the commonest procedures done; about half a million times worldwide each year. If the anaesthesia is a cause of worry for you, get the procedure done under short general anaesthesia, such as with ketamine as the procedure is quick.

2. If she has had an adenoidectomy at age 3 years, please get a repeat X-ray to rule out any recurrence of adenoid hypertrophy.

3. The tubes extrude in a few weeks or months (up to a year) and the incision closes. While the tubes are in place, swimming, diving or water entering the ears while bathing is avoided. After the tubes fall out and the ear drum heals, there are no restrictions.

4. While the tubes are in place, build-up of middle ear fluid does not occur. However, normal middle ear secretions may leak out during a cold or infection.

5. The tubes are designed to ventilate the ear by allowing air into the middle ear in cases of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and are not designed to drain fluid. As air pressures equalise in the middle ear, the middle ear heals.

6. Otovent nasal balloon will be easier to use than an ordinary balloon for auto-inflation exercises. Chewing and Yawning exercises will help.

7. You may use OTC pediatric nasal decongestant drops containing 0.05% xylometazoline, 3-4 drops per nostril, twice a day; for not more than a week. Steam inhalation will also help if this is ETD. Other medications will require a prescription.

8. If she has persistent middle ear effusions, affecting her hearing, the grommets will help.

9. Have her allergy tests been done? One way to avoid grommets is if allergy control and the above treatment works for her. Her hearing tests including Impedance Audiometry/ Tympanogram should be normal.

I hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

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