The Benefits of Ear Microsuction versus Syringing

Nick Roberts from Ear Suction Hawkes Bay

Extracts from an article by Brenda Lockie-Julian, Registered Nurse; Vorotek Product Specialist; Ear Nurse Clinician Trainer; RN BA MBA.

"Growing interest in Ear Microsuction over the last few years has been driven in part, by client demand as well as Practitioners wanting to adopt an alternative, safer practice than Ear Syringing.

As there is an ever-increasing problem with Syringing complications, Manual Wax Removal not involving liquid has fewer risks and is now becoming more widely practiced. A combination of procedures can be used - cerumenolytic agents, ear curettage and ear microsuction.

Microsuction is generally well tolerated and considered to be a safer and more effective option than syringing. Carried out under direct vision as a "dry" procedure, there is less risk of trauma and infection. It is considered good for soft to moderately hard wax and wax impactions.

NICE guidelines stress that adults should not be offered ear syringing with the following conditions: dermatologic diseases of the ear canal; recurrent otitis externa; keratosis obturans; prior radiation therapy affecting the ear; previous tympanoplasty/myringoplasty, mastoidectomy, or other ear canal surgery. Some of these conditions would be considered safe to treat with Microsuction".

Note: NICE is the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, which is based in the UK.