Purpose of ear irrigation 705
by Admin
Posted on 25-01-2023 09:20 AM
The main purpose of the
ear
irrigation process is to remove ear wax that is obstructing the ear canal or to remove a foreign object lodged in the ear canal. This method is most commonly performed on those who experience a wax build-up that has impaired hearing and caused irritation in the outer ear canal.
The primary objective of the method is to clean the canal of wax discharge, to soften and remove impacted cerumen, or to completely dislodge a foreign object. Ear wax removal by the method of irrigation is a safer and more effective method of cleaning the ears.
Most of our clinics offer the irrigation method of earwax removal for people who are more comfortable with it and for situations that require it. The procedure is undertaken with a spray type ear wash machine or hand held manual spray wash bottle, which is commonly used in the medical setting. The irrigation solution is carefully warmed to body temperature for comfort. Ear irrigation involves using a pressurised flow of water to remove the build-up of ear wax. This is a straightforward procedure where a controlled flow of water, at body temperature, is squirted into the ear through a purpose-made machine (an electronic ear irrigator) or spray wash bottle.
What is the purpose of ear irrigation? ear irrigation is a routine procedure used to remove excess earwax, or cerumen, and foreign materials from the ear. The ear naturally secretes wax to protect and lubricate the ear as well as to keep debris out and hinder bacterial growth. What are the benefits of irrigation ear cleaning? safer than syringing. Earwax removal by irrigation is a very safe method of ear cleaning. Usually quick removal. Irrigation earwax removal is normally a quick process, usually lasting no longer than thirty minutes an ear. Really gets it all. How effective is ear irrigation? ear irrigation can be an effective earwax removal method for people who have a build-up of earwax in one or both of their ears.
This guidelines for nurses summary explains the procedure for ear irrigation that should be only carried out by an experienced healthcare worker who has received recognised training in ear care and the use of ear care equipment. It provides information on the purpose, scope, and procedure, and outlines the risk factors.
Risks of ear irrigation
Ear irrigation may be needed if ear drops and an ear bulb do not work. The ear canal is washed out with warm water. Irrigating the ear with water will usually clear plugs of earwax.
But it is only safe if the plug of earwax has been softened. Irrigation when the wax is hard increases the risks of perforating the ear drum. Therefore, use ear drops (such as olive oil ear drops) to soften wax 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks before you have ear irrigation. F you have not used ear drops as directed then the irrigation is not likely to be successful and you will need to come back to the surgery another time.
Ear irrigation is generally regarded as being safer than ear syringing. However, it must not be performed in people who have a perforated eardrum or grommet, mastoid cavity, cleft palate, foreign object inside the ear canal or have had an outer or middle-ear infection in the last 6 weeks. It is also not appropriate for ear irrigation to be performed if you have a weak or healed eardrum following a perforation in the last 12 months or had any ear surgery within the last 18 months. In addition, the ear wax must be prepared by softening it with ear drops for several days to a week (sometimes longer) beforehand.