Gross Ear Curette - Double-Ended Stainless Steel Reusable ENT Instrument for Ear Wax Removal
The Gross ear curette is a precision double-ended ENT instrument designed for safe, controlled ear wax removal and cerumen management in clinical settings.
One end features a rounded loop curette for scooping and lifting wax, while the other provides a fine hook tip for precise manipulation and debris clearance.
Manufactured from medical grade stainless steel, this reusable instrument is polished, corrosion-resistant and built for the demands of high-volume ENT, audiology and primary care services.
Supplied by Charles Medical, a UK medical supplies specialist.
Why clinicians choose this Gross ear curette
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Double-ended design — loop curette and hook tip in one instrument for maximum versatility
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Rounded loop tip — gentle, atraumatic wax extraction with minimal canal irritation
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Fine hook end — precise manipulation and debris clearance in the ear canal
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14cm length — comfortable reach and excellent control during aural procedures
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Ergonomic handle — firm, balanced grip for accurate, confident handling
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Polished stainless steel — corrosion-resistant, easy to decontaminate, long service life
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Reusable and autoclavable — supports cost control and sustainable clinical practice
Clinical applications
- Ear wax removal and cerumen management
- Manual earwax extraction in ENT and audiology settings
- Foreign body retrieval from the ear canal
- Aural microsuction support and debris clearance
- Otoscopic examination assistance
- Paediatric and adult ear care procedures
Suitable for
- ENT outpatient departments and clinics
- Audiology practices and microsuction services
- GP surgeries and primary care
- Community ear care providers
- Paediatric ENT services
Specifications
- Instrument type: Gross ear curette (double-ended)
- Ends: Rounded loop curette and fine hook tip
- Length: 14cm (approx.)
- Material: Medical grade stainless steel
- Finish: Smooth polished, corrosion-resistant
- Use: Reusable — compatible with standard autoclave decontamination
- Supplied by: Charles Medical
Pack options
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3 curettes (GTIN: 5061109750192) — ideal for single-practitioner use or to trial the instrument
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5 curettes (GTIN: 5065021841570) — keep multiple instruments in rotation between patients
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10 curettes (GTIN: 5061109750208) — best value for high-volume ENT services and busy ear care clinics
Use and care
Follow your local decontamination protocol before first use and between patients.
Inspect the tips and handle for damage before each session. Clean with an approved detergent solution and sterilise using your facility’s standard autoclave cycle in line with local decontamination guidelines (HTM 01-01 or equivalent). Store dry to maintain the polished finish and prolong instrument life.
Stock multiple curettes to eliminate downtime between patients during decontamination cycles.
Pair with Jobson Horne probes, Frazier suction tubes, otoscope specula and sterile gloves for a complete ear care instrument set.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Gross ear curette used for?
A Gross ear curette is a reusable ENT instrument used for manual ear wax removal and cerumen management. The rounded loop end scoops and lifts wax from the ear canal, while the hook tip allows precise manipulation of debris and foreign material. It is commonly used in ENT clinics, audiology practices, GP surgeries and community ear care services as part of routine aural procedures.
What is the difference between a Gross curette and a Jobson Horne probe?
Both are double-ended ENT instruments used for ear wax removal, but they differ in tip design. A Gross ear curette features a rounded loop on one end for scooping wax and a hook on the other for manipulation. A Jobson Horne probe has a looped wire curette on one end and a serrated probe tip on the other, making it better suited to probing and breaking up harder wax. Many clinicians keep both instruments available for different wax consistencies and canal presentations.
Is a Gross ear curette reusable?
Yes. This stainless steel Gross ear curette is fully reusable and compatible with standard autoclave decontamination. Follow your local decontamination protocol between patients. Inspect the tips and handle before each use and store dry to maintain the polished finish. Reusable instruments reduce per-procedure cost and support sustainable clinical practice compared to single-use alternatives.
Can a Gross ear curette be used for foreign body removal?
Yes. The hook tip of the Gross ear curette is frequently used to assist with foreign body retrieval from the ear canal, particularly for soft or semi-solid material that can be carefully hooked and withdrawn. For hard or deeply lodged foreign bodies, additional instruments such as forceps or suction may be required. Always assess the object and canal carefully before attempting retrieval.
What size is the Gross ear curette?
This Gross ear curette is approximately 14cm in length, which provides comfortable reach and good control during aural procedures in both adult and paediatric patients. The balanced handle and slim profile allow precise movement within the ear canal when used alongside an otoscope or headlight.
How do I sterilise a Gross ear curette?
After each use, clean the instrument with an approved detergent solution, paying attention to the loop and hook tips. Sterilise using your facility’s standard autoclave cycle in line with local decontamination guidelines (HTM 01-01 or equivalent). Inspect the tips for wear or damage before returning to service. Store dry to maintain the surface finish and prolong instrument life.
Is the Gross ear curette suitable for paediatric use?
Yes. The Gross ear curette fine tips and balanced 14cm handle make it suitable for use in paediatric ENT settings where precision and minimal trauma are essential. As with all ENT procedures in children, appropriate technique, patient cooperation and clinical judgement should guide instrument selection and use.