Ear Wick Tube

Ear wick
Ear wicks are medical devices used to aid in the treatment of otitis externa, commonly known as swimmers ear. They are designed to deliver medication, such as antibiotic solutions, to the ear canal and the ear canal membrane. Here are some key points about ear wicks:

Design and Benefits: Ear wicks are inserted into the ear canal to help deliver antibiotics during the treatment of otitis externa. They are particularly useful when the ear canal is swollen and makes it difficult to apply ear drops directly.

Types and Sizes: Various types and sizes of ear wicks are available. For example, Rhino Surgical offers ear wicks in different sizes, such as 9.0mm x 15.0mm, 9.0mm x 24.0mm, and 12.0mm x 15.0mm, all of which come in boxes of 20 units and are gamma-sterilized.

Usage: When liquid medication is applied to the sterile, compressed sponge of an ear wick, it expands to fill the ear canal, dispersing the medication and applying gentle pressure to the tissue. This helps in treating conditions like otitis externa more effectively.

Procedure: An ENT specialist may insert an ear wick using a microscope and micro forceps. The wick remains in place for a few days and facilitates local drug absorption. It is usually removed after a few days when the swelling has resolved, and treatment can be continued with ear drops.

Care Instructions: After inserting an ear wick, it is important to keep the ear as dry as possible. Avoid swimming or other water sports, and use a towel to remove water from the ears. Do not put anything except the prescribed medicine into your ear.

Duration: Ear wicks are typically left in place for a few days, usually no more than 4 days, depending on the severity of the condition and the response to treatment.