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Ear syringing improved hearing in general practice

https://doi.org/10.1136/ebn.6.3.85

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    Memel D, Langley C, Watkins C, et al.Effectiveness of ear syringing in general practice: a randomised controlled trial and patients’ experiences.Br J Gen Pract2002;52:906–11OpenUrlAbstract/FREE Full Text

    QUESTION: In general practice, does ear syringing improve hearing thresholds?

    Design

    Randomised {allocation concealed}*, blinded (outcome assessors), controlled trial with immediate follow up.

    Setting

    Ear syringing clinics at 3 general practices in the Bristol area, UK.

    Patients

    116 patients who attended the clinics with an ear drum completely obscured by wax and had instilled oily ear drops for ≥3 days before syringing. 114 patients (98%) were included in the analysis (mean age 63 y, 54% men).

    Intervention

    All patients had a first hearing test. 55 patients allocated to the intervention group immediately had their ears syringed, waited until they were dry, and then had a second hearing test. 61 patients allocated to the control group …

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    Footnotes

    • ↵* Information provided by author.

    • Source of funding: Royal College of General Practitioners Scientific Foundation Group.

    • For correspondence: Dr D Memel, Air Balloon Surgery, St George, Bristol, UK. dmemel{at}airballoon.cix.co.uk