Management of Ear Drum Perforations

Patient Care and Prevention

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery recommends avoiding irrigation or use of cerumen-removing/softening drops in ears with perforated eardrums to prevent infection 1, 2
Patients with perforated eardrums should avoid getting water in the ear and ear irrigation, which could cause infection or vertigo 4
The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery advises against using cerumen-removing drops unless specifically cleared by an otolaryngologist 1, 2
Patients with diabetes require special caution with ear irrigation due to higher risk of malignant otitis externa 4

When treating ear infections in patients with perforated eardrums, non-ototoxic preparations like ofloxacin should be used rather than potentially ototoxic alternatives 3