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Ear injury caused by a sticky-tipped applicator
Tetsuaki Kawase1, Koshi Adachi, Seiji Kakehata
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Seiryo-machi 1-1, Aoba-ku, Sendai 9808574, Japan. kaw@mail.cc.tohoku.ac.jp
Summary
A rare tympanic membrane injury occurred due to a sticky applicator. The applicator's stickiness, effective for cerumen removal, poses risks to delicate ear structures.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cerumen removal is a common otologic procedure.
- Sticky-tipped applicators offer a novel approach for earwax removal.
Observation:
- A case of traumatic tympanic membrane injury caused by a sticky applicator during gentle cleaning is reported.
- The injury mechanism involved medial-to-lateral force application on a dry tympanic membrane.
Findings:
- Experimental analysis revealed applicator stickiness increases on soft, dry surfaces.
- The applicator's stickiness, optimized for moist ear canals, was excessive for the dry tympanic membrane.
- This excessive adhesion led to traumatic injury.
Implications:
- Current sticky applicator designs may pose a risk to the tympanic membrane.
- Modifications, such as reducing stickiness or applying oil/powder, are recommended before use.
- Further research into safer cerumen removal tools is warranted.