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Summary
Patients with tympanotomy tubes can safely get water in their ears. This study found that allowing water exposure, with post-swim ear drops, prevents infections and is compatible with tympanotomy tubes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Otology
Background:
- Traditionally, water exposure is restricted for patients with tympanotomy tubes to prevent ear infections.
- This practice often necessitates the use of earplugs and other protective measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of allowing water exposure in children with tympanotomy tubes.
- To determine if prophylactic measures like earplugs are necessary.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 100 children with tympanotomy tubes over three years.
- Children were instructed to allow bath/shower water in their ears and swim with nightly use of polymyxin/neomycin/hydrocortisone ear drops.
Main Results:
- Complications were rare and easily managed.
- No long-term adverse effects were observed.
- Water exposure was found to be compatible with tympanotomy tubes.
Conclusions:
- Routine water precautions are unnecessary for children with tympanotomy tubes.
- Swimming and showering can be permitted with appropriate post-exposure ear drop use.
- Specialized tubes, earplugs, and caps are not required to prevent infections.