Insertion Of Grommets - Ventilation Tubes Post Operative Instructions

Post-operative care for grommets involves keeping the ears dry, especially for the first week or two to prevent infection and managing mild pain with over-the-counter medication like paracetamol. Please follow Dr Kelly’s instructions regarding antibiotic drops, expect some minor discharge or bleeding initially, and resume normal activities after a few days.

Immediate and first few days

• Pain: Some discomfort is expected, often relieved by paracetamol or ibuprofen.
• Discharge: It is normal to have a small amount of blood or clear fluid discharge from the ear for the first 1-2 days.
• Activity: Your child may feel drowsy from the anaesthetic for up to 24 hours. Avoid swimming or putting your head underwater during this time. Rigorous activity should be avoided for the first 72 hours.
• Food: Start with light refreshments. Nausea is possible after anaesthesia, so small, light meals are best initially.

Keeping ears dry

• Showering: You can shower but avoid getting water in the ears.
• Bathing: Avoid submerging your head in the bath.
• Swimming: Do not swim until your first post-operative appointment. After that, use earplugs and a swimming cap.

When to use medication

• Antibiotic drops: Use as prescribed by your doctor to prevent infection and treat discharge.
• Ear infection: If discharge (especially pus) continues for more than 24 hours after the first few days, contact your GP for a prescription of antibiotic drops. Oral antibiotics are generally not effective for a discharging grommet.

Long-term care and follow-up

• Activity: After the first few days, normal activity can resume.
• Swimming: After your post-operative check, you can usually resume swimming with earplugs and a swimming cap.
• Grommet extrusion: Grommets typically fall out on their own within 6 to 12 months.
• Follow-up appointments: A post-operative appointment is usually scheduled around 3-4 weeks after surgery, followed by check-ups every 6 months to monitor the grommets.

When to contact your doctor or seek emergency care

• Discharge: If discharge is profuse, continues for more than a week, or you are concerned, contact Dr Kellys rooms on 07 3831 7866
• Hearing: If hearing has not improved, contact your doctor or Dr Sharon Kellys rooms
• For serious issues like severe bleeding, prolonged vomiting, or drowsiness, go directly to the emergency department of the hospital where the operation was performed.