Abstract
Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as a weekly irrigant to reduce cerumen accumulation, using a unique closed tip irrigator bottle.
Method: Prospective crossover study. Forty ears randomly divided into 2 groups. Group 1 instilled IPA weekly for 2 months, followed by 2 months of no cleaning. Group 2 did the opposite. Cerumen occlusion graded 0 to 4 (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) followed by cerumenectomy at 0, 2, and 4 months.
Results: The mean grade at the initial evaluation in Group 1 was 3.1 (range, 2-4) and in Group 2 was 3.3 (range, 3-4) (P = .33). After the first 2 months, there was a significant difference between those who used the IPA (Group 1) vs those who did not (Group 2) (P < .0002). There was also a significant difference within both groups between using the IPA for 2 months and not cleaning for 2 months (P < .02 Group 1, P < .01 Group 2). All subjects tolerated IPA with no complaints or side effects, and there were no cases of canal irritation.
Conclusion: Weekly irrigation with 70% IPA is safe and reduces the accumulation of cerumen in the external auditory canal. Routine use of IPA may decrease the number of patient visits for cerumen related issues.
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