Welch Allyn Ear Wash System 29350 - User Manual - Manual (Page 23)

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Anatomy And Physiology
• Cerumen is produced in the outer third of the ear canal and natu-
rally moves to the outer ear as new tissue grows from the area
around the tympanic membrane.
• Normal cerumen routinely becomes a medical issue when it
impedes the physicians ability to visualize the tympanic mem-
brane. Less frequently, cerumen can accumulate and harden, in
the canal causing occlusion of the ear canal. In the most severe
cases cerumen can become ‘impacted’ in the deep (bony) canal
causing pain and temporary loss of hearing.
Cerumenolytic Agents
• Cerumenolytic agents are those agents designed specifically to
dissolve or soften cerumen.
• Most softening agents, particularly over-the-counter products
contain carbamide peroxide which is the only agent the FDA con-
siders safe for loosening or softening cerumen.
• In some instances, it is necessary to soften cerumen prior to
removal or instead of removal.
Cross Contamination / Backflow Prevention
• At the time of this printing, ear wax (cerumen) is not considered
a biohazard. However individual municipalities may place a higher
level of concern where water is sucked back into the line (from
the Ear Wash) when a negative line pressure condition exists.
You can order a back flow prevention adapter that meets all cur-
rent national and international requirements by calling Welch
Allyn or obtaining one from your local hardware store (watts
model 8C). To determine if this type of device is necessary, con-
tact your local water authority.