Grommet

A small tube that may be inserted through an incision in the eardrum during surgery to treat glue ear, usually in children. The grommet equalizes the pressure on both sides of the eardrum, permitting mucus to drain down the eustachian tube into the back of the throat. The tubes are usually allowed to fall out on their own as the hole in the eardrum closes, 6–12 months after insertion.