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Chronic tinnitus resulting from cerumen removal procedures
Robert L Folmer1, Baker Yongbing Shi
1Tinnitus Clinic, Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA. folmerr@ohsu.edu
The International Tinnitus Journal
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Cerumen removal procedures can lead to chronic tinnitus in a small percentage of patients. Following expert cerumen management guidelines can prevent serious ear complications and potential legal issues.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
Background:
- Cerumen impaction is a common condition.
- Improper cerumen removal can cause complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the incidence of tinnitus post-cerumen removal.
- Summarize best practices for cerumen management.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 2400 tinnitus clinic patients (1986-2000).
- Analyzed patient histories for tinnitus onset related to cerumen removal.
Main Results:
- 0.46% of patients reported tinnitus after clinician cerumen removal.
- 3 patients reported tinnitus from self-cleaning attempts.
Conclusions:
- Cerumen removal can cause chronic tinnitus and hearing loss.
- Adhering to expert guidelines minimizes complication risks.