Day theatre procedure
About this service
Bilateral grommet insertion places tiny ventilation tubes in both eardrums to drain fluid and prevent repeat ear infections, commonly done for children under a short general anaesthetic, and it is offered in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. Grommets help restore normal air pressure in the middle ear, which can improve hearing and reduce the frequency of ear infections when fluid keeps building up on both sides.
The procedure is carried out in our on-site day theatre by a visiting ENT surgeon. Your doctor will assess both ears and hearing before recommending grommets as the right treatment.
What to expect
- Your doctor examines both ears and arranges a hearing test to confirm fluid on both sides
- The visiting ENT surgeon drains each ear and places a grommet in both eardrums under a short general anaesthetic
- Most children are up and playing within a few hours and go home the same day
- A little discharge from either ear in the first days is common and usually settles
- You will be shown how to protect both ears when bathing or swimming, with hearing rechecked at follow-up
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Repeated ear infections affecting both ears
- Hearing difficulty linked to persistent fluid behind both eardrums
- A child struggling to hear clearly or falling behind at school
- A diagnosis of chronic glue ear affecting both sides
- Ear pain or pressure that keeps recurring despite other treatment
Frequently asked questions
How long do grommets stay in both ears?
Grommets usually work their way out of the eardrum on their own after six to twelve months, and the small hole closes behind them. Your doctor checks both ears at follow-up to see whether the fluid has stayed away.
Can my child swim with grommets in both ears?
Surface swimming is generally fine, though your doctor may suggest ear plugs or a swimming band. Avoid diving and dirty water, and keep soapy bath water out of the ears.
Is bilateral grommet insertion done under general anaesthetic?
Yes. A short general anaesthetic lets the visiting ENT surgeon treat both ears calmly in a few minutes while your child is asleep. Recovery is quick, and most children leave our day theatre the same day.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek hosts visiting ENT surgeons for bilateral grommet insertion, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your grommet insertion (both ears)?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.