Resumen

SAFFER, Moacyr  y  MIURA, Maurício S. Tympanostomy Tubes and Water. Rev. chil. pediatr. [online]. 2004, vol.75, n.2, pp. 188-193. ISSN 0370-4106.  doi: 10.4067/S0370-41062004000200014.

Objective: An in vitro study was conducted to set the necessary pressure in liquids that could break resistance and cross orifice of ventilation tube. Methods: A water column model was created and graduated in centimeters from base to top. We adapted three sorts of ventilation tubes. In each model, liquids were tested (tip water, sea water, river water, soapy water and otologic drops). The column was fulfilled with liquid, until a threshold was reached, flowing through tube’s orifice. Threshold was registered and represented the pressure (cmH2O). Results: Results shows that pressure is necessary so that a liquid could cross orifice of ventilation tube. Conclusion: In spite of limitations of our in vitro study, literature suggest that no protection is needed in ears during shower, since there isn’t direct flow of water nor pressure in ear. Bath with soapy water is potentially dangerous due to reduction in surface tension. The direct relation of pressure and surface tension through orifice of ventilation tube indicate the need in decrease pressure when diving and avoid strong movements of head in water

Palabras clave : Water; Ventilation Tubes; Otorrhea.