Biodegradable pellet offers potential solution to glue ear

Scientists at Nottingham University have developed the controlled-release antibiotic pellet, which can be implanted in the middle ear during surgery to fit grommets, or small ventilation tubes.

Over a period of three weeks it will release effective quantities of antibiotics to target any infection which can, in up to 20 per cent of cases, result in children having to return for a second and sometimes a third operation.

The team has been led by John Birchall, professor of otorhinolaryngology, and Roger Bayston, associate professor of surgical infection, in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Prof Birchall said: ‘Glue ear is one of the commonest complaints that we see in children in the ENT clinic. The condition causes hearing loss, problems with speech or schooling, and often it is accompanied by repeated ear infections.’

According to Nottingham University, glue ear occurs when a thick mucus collects inside the ear — at the other side of the ear drum — and interferes with hearing.