Analysis of ear foreign bodies in adult patients

Abstract

Background: Foreign bodies (FBs) in the ear are frequently encountered by an otolaryngologist. Certain types of ear FBs in our adult patients may reflect negative phenomena in our community. Objectives: This study was carried out to analyze the main types of adult aural FBs and to highlight the increasing frequency of already known types and more interesting newly known type of FB. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective descriptive study of adult patients with aural FB seen in the ENT Department in Al-Mahawil Hospital for the 2 years – 2015 and 2016. The clinical presentation, type of FB, and management outcome were analyzed. Results: Two hundred and thirty-two patients aged 18–82 years were evaluated. Cotton wool (of the earbuds) was the most common FB with 93 (40%) patients (male: 54, female: 39) aged 21–82 years; the insect FB with 78 (33.7%) patients (male: 32, female: 46) aged 18–58 years; and garlic with 36 (15.5%) patients (male: 15, female: 21) aged 25–74 years; the newly known interesting FB put by the students into their ears during the examination was Bluetooth device in 15 (6.5%) patients (male only) aged 18–23 years; and miscellaneous FBs such as paper, broken matchstick and clinics were found in 10 (4.3%) patients (male: 7, female: 3) aged 35–60 years. All the FBs were unilateral and removed successfully without anesthesia, except four cases removed under general anesthesia. Complications did occur such as otitis externa: 8, bleeding and laceration: 6, and abrasion: 10. The complications were mainly due to previous unsuccessful trials and delayed referral. Conclusion: The increased abuse of earbuds causes more incidence of FB in the ears. We have seen more garlic in the ears because of misunderstanding of some traditional thoughts. Moreover, recently, we observed new FB, Bluetooth device objects in the ears of students. Health education of the general population is necessary for prevention.