Microsuction is a method for removing excess ear wax. All Earworx Clinic Managers complete Earworx training in aural care and an extended practical placement in microsuction and curettage.
Microsuction is a dry way to remove excess ear wax. At our award-winning Earworx clinics, microsuction and curettage is performed by qualified, Registered Nurses to assist people who are suffering from ear wax blockages and impaction. Along with curettage and the use of fine instruments, microsuction is the preferred wax removal method of Ear Nose and Throat specialists.
How Does Microsuction Work?
Before the procedure begins, you will be required to fill out a questionnaire relating to your ear history. The questionnaire also includes questions about your current symptoms (such as hearing loss, itching, ringing or a feeling of blockage). Your experienced and highly trained Registered Nurse will then discuss this questionnaire with you. The nurse may also ask you further questions in a safe and confidential environment.
Your ear canal and eardrum will then be examined by inserting a speculum gently into your ear. At this point, it will be determined whether the amount of earwax you have necessitates the micro-suction procedure.
If wax removal is determined as being clinically indicated, the procedure will be explained and an opportunity to ask questions provided. A very small micro-suction catheter attached to suction tubing will then be inserted directly into your ear canal. The catheter removes excess ear wax, much like a tiny vacuum cleaner. Throughout the procedure, your nurse will carefully observe the process with an O-Scope; converging 3D lenses fitted with a bright light. They are used to ensure that direct vision of your ear canal and drum is maintained at all times.
Why choose microsuction?
Micro-suction differs from having your ears syringed with water as it is a completely dry procedure. Whilst water syringing can be used to remove wax, it is not without complications and can often be messy and uncomfortable. For some populations a dry technique is necessary or preferred, including those with a perforated eardrum or grommets, diabetics, those who have a depressed immune system or are taking blood thinners.
Micro-suction and curettage can also be used on people who have a current ear infection to remove debris related to infection and allow better penetration of prescribed ear drops. It can also be used to remove foreign bodies such as insects, cotton bud tips and dislodged hearing aid domes. Your Earworx Registered Nurse performs the whole procedure under direct visualisation. Because the nurse watches the ear canal throughout, they can see where the wax is and how much remains.
The procedure itself is quite quick, especially if the wax has been pre-softened. Generally speaking, your nurse will have you in and out the door within half an hour. Sometimes for particularly dry and stubborn impacted wax, softening is required to make the procedure more comfortable.
Overall, micro-suction is quick, well tolerated, and does not expose the ear to moisture.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or concerns about the microsuction procedure, feel free to get in touch
Think you might be suffering from excess ear wax? Book an appointment with your local clinic today