Eardrum Repairs

Why does my child need this operation?

A germ or harm can lead to the formation of a hole in the eardrum. Should any segment of the ear sustain damage, it might prevent sound from passing through to the inner ear.

Numerous factors can obstruct sound transmission, such as a rupture in the eardrum or issues with the small bones located in the middle ear.

The goal of the procedure is to seal the middle ear completely to halt any fluid leakage from the ear and to prevent reinfection.

What does the operation involve?

The surgeon will perform a procedure by making an incision either behind or in front of your child’s ear. It might be necessary to use a piece of tissue, known as a graft, from the area near the ear to fix the tear in the eardrum. This graft will be harvested from the temporal muscle, a portion of which is located behind your child’s ear.

During the procedure, your child might need to have a section of their hair shaved around the ear to give the surgeon access to this muscle.

Should the small bones require repair, the doctor might use a synthetic bone or, in some cases, a piece of the child’s own bone could be utilised.

The surgery will be performed under a general anaesthetic, ensuring your child is unconscious throughout the procedure.

What is the benefit of the operation?

The benefits of the operation are:

• To help prevent the middle ear from becoming infected.
• It may improve your child’s hearing. However, if the eardrum is badly scarred, this may not be possible.

What happens before the operation?

Your appointment letter will include guidance on when your child should cease eating and drinking prior to the surgery.

Will my child be in pain?

It’s normal for your child to feel uneasy for a couple of days following the surgery. We’ll provide them with pain relief during their stay in the hospital, and they’ll receive it on a regular basis once they’re back in the ward.

We suggest you administer a basic pain reliever like paracetamol if your child can handle it (make sure to check the instructions; avoid going over the suggested amount). Commonly known as Calpol, Disprol, and Medinol are some of the brand names for this. If you have any questions, feel free to consult with your pharmacist.

When can my child go home?

Your kid might have to remain in the hospital overnight following the surgery, based on what the specialist recommends. One parent is allowed to stay overnight with their child.

Before they can go home, your child will need to have:

  • Eaten an adequate amount of food and drink
  • Had no bleeding
  • Passed urine
  • Stopped being sick
  • A normal temperature
  • The approval of the ENT team to go home

We recommend that your child does not travel home on public transport due to the risk of infection.

Eardrum repair is a surgical procedure

Repair of eardrum rupture is possible with eardrum surgery