Myringotomy and Grommet Tube Insertion
Are you experiencing consistent ear pain or hearing loss? These could stem from recurring ear infections, indicating an underlying issue. For an accurate diagnosis and specialised care, visit our experienced ENT specialist at Aglow ENT Centre for a consultation.
What is Myringotomy and Grommet Tube Insertion?
Myringotomy refers to a minor, minimally invasive surgery where a small cut is made in the eardrum to drain the fluid (water, blood or pus) from the middle ear. Patients who exhibit the following symptoms may need a myringotomy:
- Repeated ear infections
- Ear bleeding
- Balance problems
- Ear pain from air pressure (barotrauma)
- Hearing loss or speech delays (in children). This surgery is often performed on children as they are more prone to frequent ear infections.
Depending on the patient’s condition, a ventilation tube (also called a grommet tube or tympanostomy tube) might be inserted into the incision to allow for prolonged drainage or ventilation. Ventilation tubes usually remain in place for 6 to 18 months and naturally fall out once the ear condition is resolved. Sometimes, the myringotomy alone is enough, and the incision heals naturally without a tube. Our ENT surgeon will provide her expert recommendation based on the patient’s specific needs.
Since anaesthesia will be used, patients can be assured that pain and discomfort during the procedure will be minimal. Additionally, pain relievers and numbing ear drops may be prescribed to aid recovery, and most patients can return to school or work within a few days.
What is the Success Rate of Myringotomy and Grommet Tube Insertion?
Myringotomy and grommet tube insertion have proven successful for most patients, providing significant improvements in hearing for both children and adults. These procedures often address hearing loss caused by fluid buildup in the middle ear, providing effective relief.
What are the Benefits of Myringotomy and Grommet Tube Insertion?
- Drains Fluid from the Middle Ear: Helps resolve fluid buildup in the middle ear, minimising pressure and discomfort.
- Prevents Recurrent Ear Infections: Reduces the frequency of middle ear infections, especially in children who experience them frequently.
- Improves Hearing: Restores normal hearing by relieving fluid-related hearing loss, which is common with middle ear effusion.
- Short Recovery Time: The surgical procedure is minimally invasive with a quick recovery period, making it suitable for children and adults.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Myringotomy and Grommet Tube Insertion?
As myringotomy and grommet tube insertion are both surgical procedures involving the use of anaesthesia, they do come with potential risks. Some common side effects of myringotomy and grommet tube insertion include clogged or blocked ear sensation, mild ear pain or discomfort and fluid drainage (otorrhea). Rest assured, these side effects typically resolve on their own. Our experienced ENT specialist will help you understand the benefits and risks of the surgery based on your unique condition.
When should you see an ENT specialist in Singapore?
Please consult an ENT specialist if you are suffering from any ear, nose, or throat symptoms. It is also advisable to visit an ENT doctor if you experience persistent mouth breathing due to a chronic blocked nose or encounter snoring issues.
Dr Ker Liang sees adults and children for general ENT conditions and provides comprehensive management in a broad range of Ear, Nose, and Throat, as well as Head and Neck conditions. She has a special interest in treating throat and voice conditions, including persistent sore throat, voice issues, snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
Medical Teaching
Assistant Professor Ker Liang has a passion for teaching and is an Assistant Professor with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM). As the NUS-NUH Otolaryngology Department Undergraduate Medical Director, Dr Ker Liang supervises the training of medical students from YLLSOM, NUS. She is actively involved
in the training of postgraduate junior doctors and residents in the Head and Neck Surgery department. She was conferred with an Undergraduate Teaching Award by the National University Health System in 2016 for her outstanding efforts as an Otolaryngology educator.
