Open AccessSound levels with aural suctioning: Effects of suction size, canal moisture, and distance from the eardrum
Author(s) -
Young Allen,
Reeve Nathaniel H.,
Yang Albert,
Kahane Jacob,
Cross Chad,
Albanese Anita,
Ng Matthew
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2378-8038
DOI - 10.1002/lio2.432
Subject(s) - eardrum , ear canal , decibel , suction , sound (geography) , acoustics , sound pressure , auditory canal , microphone , middle ear , outer ear , medicine , audiology , anatomy , physics , meteorology
Abstract Objective To determine sound levels resulting from aural suctioning of the external auditory canal. Methods Unweighted decibels (dB) and A‐weighted decibels (dBA) sound pressure level measurements were recorded using a retrotympanic microphone in cadaveric human temporal bones. Sound measurements were made with common otologic suctions, size 3, 5, and 7 French, within the external ear canal at the tympanic membrane, 5, and 10 mm from the tympanic membrane in the dry condition. In the wet condition, the ear canal was filled with fluid and completely suctioned clear to determine sound effects of suctioning liquid from the ear canal. Results Sound levels generated from ear canal suctioning ranged from 68.3 to 97 dB and 62.6 to 95.1 dBA. Otologic suctions positioned closer to the tympanic membrane resulted in louder sound levels, but was not statistically significant ( P > .05). Using larger diameter suctions generated louder dB and dBA sound levels ( P < .001) and the addition of liquid in the ear canal during the suction process generated louder dB and dBA sound levels ( P < .001). Conclusions Smaller caliber suction sizes and nonsuctioning techniques should be utilized for in‐office aural toilet to reduce noise trauma and patient discomfort. Level of evidence 5