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Ear protection against water-borne infection: an objective evaluation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

Kyösti Laitakari*
Affiliation:
Oulu, Finland
Martti Sorri
Affiliation:
Oulu, Finland
Tapio Pirilä
Affiliation:
Oulu, Finland
Heli Löppönen
Affiliation:
Oulu, Finland
Laila Helisten
Affiliation:
Oulu, Finland
*
Kyösti, Laitakari, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Oulu, SF-90220 Oulu, Finland.

Abstract

Eight different ear plug materials were tested, in 5 ears each, in artificial shallow underwater conditions for 30 minutes, in order to determine their efficacy in sealing the ear canals to avoid water-borne infections in ear canals and open middle ears. Most of the plugs tested would meet everyday requirements for protection, but the polymeric foam plugs, treated with petroleum jelly, and moldable plastic materials were most effective in protecting both the middle ear and the ear canal skin.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1986

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References

Johnson, D. W. and Maisel, R. H. (1981) Objective evaluation of earplugs for control of water-borne infection. Annals of Otology, Rhinology and Laryngology, 90: 8993.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed
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