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Post-myringotomy care: a prospective study
The Journal of Otolaryngology
|October 1, 1984
Summary
Children with tympanostomy tubes can safely swim and bathe without earplugs. A study found no increased risk of ear infections, simplifying care for families and physicians.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Children with tympanostomy tubes often face restrictions regarding water activities like swimming and bathing.
- Parents typically provide constant supervision to prevent water entry into the ear canal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of suppurative otitis media in children with tympanostomy tubes in relation to bathing and swimming.
- To assess the safety of allowing children with tympanostomy tubes to swim and bathe with or without precautions.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involved over 1,000 children randomly assigned to two groups.
- One group used protective measures (earplugs, caps), while the other swam/bathed without precautions but used antibiotic ear drops.
- Data collected between June 1981 and August 1982.
Main Results:
- No significant increase in suppurative otitis media prevalence was observed in the 'open canal' (no precautions) group compared to the 'closed canal' group.
- Infections showed an even distribution throughout the year, without seasonal peaks related to water exposure.
Conclusions:
- Swimming and bathing are generally safe for most children with tympanostomy tubes.
- These findings simplify post-myringotomy care protocols for children, parents, and healthcare providers.