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Water penetration into middle ear through ventilation tubes in children while swimming
Mao-Che Wang1, Chia-Yu Liu, An-Suey Shiao
1Department of Otolaryngology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
|March 3, 2009
Summary
Children with ventilation tubes can swim without ear protection. Water penetration into the middle ear and subsequent infection are unlikely during surface swimming in clean pools.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Ventilation tube insertion is a common treatment for persistent otitis media with effusion in children.
- Parents frequently inquire about swimming restrictions and potential effects of ventilation tubes on daily activities.
- Investigating water penetration through ventilation tubes during swimming is crucial for parental guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the likelihood of water penetration into the middle ear through ventilation tubes during swimming.
- To evaluate the safety of swimming without ear protection for children with ventilation tubes.
Main Methods:
- 14 children with otitis media with effusion undergoing ventilation tube insertion were included.
- Patients swam for 1 hour without ear protection, with immediate poolside examination using a videotelescope.
- Follow-up at 2 weeks assessed for otorrhea.
Main Results:
- 22 ears were evaluated; 8 remained dry, 5 had water in the outer ear canal, and 2 had water in the inner ear canal.
- Water reached the ventilation tube or tympanic membrane in 6 ears.
- Only 1 ear showed water penetration into the middle ear, with no otorrhea reported after 2 weeks.
Conclusions:
- Surface swimming in clean, chlorinated pools is unlikely to cause middle ear infections through ventilation tubes.
- Children with ventilation tubes can safely enjoy swimming without protective measures.
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