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Related Experiment Videos

Swimming and grommets.

N J Marks, R P Mills

    Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine
    |January 1, 1983
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Patients with tympanic membrane grommets can likely swim without risk of middle ear infection. Theoretical and practical assessments suggest water entry is improbable, even during diving, minimizing otitis media risk.

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    Area of Science:

    • Otolaryngology
    • Middle Ear Surgery
    • Infectious Disease

    Background:

    • Patients with tympanic membrane ventilation tubes (grommets) are often advised against swimming.
    • This recommendation is based on concerns about water entering the middle ear and causing infection.
    • Otitis media is a common concern following water exposure in patients with grommets.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To theoretically assess the pressure required for water to penetrate tympanic membrane grommets.
    • To compare theoretical calculations with practical observations regarding water entry.
    • To evaluate the risks of chemical and bacteriological contamination of the middle ear through grommets during swimming.

    Main Methods:

    • Theoretical calculation of hydrostatic pressure needed to overcome grommet resistance.

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  • Comparison of calculated pressures with typical pressures experienced during surface swimming and diving.
  • Discussion of potential chemical and bacteriological hazards associated with water exposure.

    • Main Results:

    • The pressure required to force water through a grommet is significant.
    • Practical observations align with theoretical assessments, indicating limited water ingress.
    • Chemical and bacteriological risks are considered low in the context of swimming.

    Conclusions:

    • Water is unlikely to enter the middle ear during surface swimming for individuals with grommets.
    • Even during underwater diving, the probability of developing otitis media due to water entry is considered small.
    • The common dictum advising against swimming for patients with grommets may be overly cautious.