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Grommets and patient satisfaction: an audit
W P Hellier1, R J Corbridge, G Watters
1Frimley Park Hospital, Surrey.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|January 10, 1998
Summary
Grommet insertion for glue ear in children offers significant benefits beyond hearing improvement. Parents reported better ear infection rates, fewer doctor visits, less school absence, and improved speech and behavior, with 96.7% satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Grommet insertion is a common ENT surgery for pediatric glue ear.
- Evidence-based medicine necessitates justification for surgical interventions.
- Audiological improvements from grommets can be moderate, potentially overshadowing other benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate parental perceptions of grommet insertion outcomes in children with glue ear.
- To assess non-audiological benefits reported by parents post-surgery.
- To provide a comprehensive view of grommet insertion effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective questionnaire study.
- Involved parents of children who underwent grommet insertion.
- Gathered parental opinions on various aspects of their child's well-being post-operation.
Main Results:
- High parental satisfaction (96.7%) with the decision to insert grommets.
- Significant reported improvements in hearing (92.1%), reduced ear infections (74.1%), and fewer GP visits (87%).
- Positive impacts on school attendance (70.7%), speech, education, and behavior were also noted.
Conclusions:
- Grommet insertion provides substantial non-audiological benefits for children with glue ear.
- Parental satisfaction is high, reflecting perceived overall improvements.
- Non-audiological outcomes should be considered when evaluating the efficacy of grommet insertion.