Can my grommet be reomved after 20 years?

[Jay1977]

Over 20 years ago, my local ENT consultant fitted a grommet to both my ears due to repeated ear infections and glue ear, I also had an adenoidectomy.

A few years later the grommet in my right ear fell out, but as of yet, the left one has not yet come out or been removed, and now my hearing is suffering because of it.  

My right ear has, for years, had to compensate for the next to no hearing at all from my left ear, caused by the two decades old grommet being blocked or corrupted,  but now I am getting older it is no longer able to help me hear at an acceptable level.

I have enquired at my GP's several times over the years about having it removed, only to be told it will make matters worse.

Is this actually the case, or is the real reason because they dont want to take responsibility for possible complications/damage because of the length of time the grommet has been in place?

I, not being a medical professional, need to know if, A: whether it can be removed, and B: if it can be removed, what are the possible pitfalls?

Also, if it isnt possible to remove it, am I within my rights to sue the consultant for damages due to his neglect?

Thanks,

Jay

[stacie600]

A related discussion, need advice about a gromet that  was put in 10 yrs ago was started.

[caregiver222]

The answer can be found at the FDA, which has an approval section for medical devices, and which maintains a history on such devices, their projected lives, and complications that have been reported over the lifetime of the device.

Ideally, your ENT should provide you with the exact designation of the device. You then contact the FDA with this information and locate the specificm individual responsible for record keeping on the device.

Curiously, this information is considered confidential, and proprietary, however they will often discuss with you problems "informally". Many times they will respond by e-mail with an answer to a specific question.

If anything, they will refer you to the manufacturer of the device (if they are still in business), who has a small manual of recommendations they provide surgeons on every device. If the product is still manufactured, the salesperson for the device for your geographical area can often provide a wealth of information.

You have two issues. Issue one is the deterioration of the grommet. Issue two is the probability of complications from surgery. Any cutting involves tissue damage, and after years tissue tends to grow around and envelop implants.

[Jay1977]

bump.

this is a major issue for me my hearing is deteriorating badly because of this and to date, not one of the apparent medical professionals on here, has come forward with any kind of an answer.