Day theatre procedure
About this service
Grommet insertion, also known as ear tube surgery, places small ventilation tubes into both eardrums under general anaesthetic, most often for children with recurring middle-ear fluid or infections, and it is performed in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre by a visiting ENT surgeon. The tubes allow air into the middle ear and let fluid drain, which can improve hearing and reduce how often ear infections happen.
It is typically considered once other treatments for persistent fluid or infections have not worked well enough. Your doctor will assess your child's ears and hearing before recommending this procedure.
What to expect
- Your child's ears are examined and hearing assessed in our rooms before ear tubes are recommended
- Under a brief general anaesthetic, the surgeon makes a small opening in each eardrum, drains the fluid and fits a tiny tube
- The tubes let air into the middle ear and allow fluid to drain, which often improves hearing right away
- Ear drops may be prescribed for a few days afterwards, and a small amount of discharge is expected
- Your doctor explains how to keep water out of the ears and books a hearing check to confirm the improvement
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A child with recurring ear infections not settling with other treatment
- Persistent fluid behind the eardrum affecting hearing
- A child appearing to have trouble hearing at home or school
- Frequent earache linked to middle ear fluid
- A doctor's recommendation for ear tubes after repeated glue ear
Frequently asked questions
What are ear tubes and how do they help glue ear?
Ear tubes, or grommets, are tiny tubes fitted into the eardrum. They let air into the middle ear and allow trapped fluid to drain, which clears the muffled hearing of glue ear and may reduce repeat infections.
Does my child need grommets for recurring ear infections?
Ear tubes are usually considered when fluid or infections have persisted for months despite other treatment and hearing is affected. Book a consultation in our rooms so the doctor can examine the ears and advise.
What happens after grommet surgery?
Your child wakes in recovery, is usually eating and drinking within an hour and goes home the same day. Expect a small amount of discharge for a day or two, and use any ear drops as prescribed.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek hosts visiting ENT surgeons for 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 (ear tubes)?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.