Sound levels with aural suctioning: Effects of suction size, canal moisture, and distance from the eardrum

Abstract

Objective: To determine sound levels resulting from aural suctioning of the external auditory canal. Methods: Unweighted decibels (dB) and A-weighted decibels (dBA) sound pressure level measurements were recorded using a retrotympanic microphone in cadaveric human temporal bones. Sound measurements were made with common otologic suctions, size 3, 5, and 7 French, within the external ear canal at the tympanic membrane, 5, and 10 mm from the tympanic membrane in the dry condition. In the wet condition, the ear canal was filled with fluid and completely suctioned clear to determine sound effects of suctioning liquid from the ear canal. Results: Sound levels generated from ear canal suctioning ranged from 68.3 to 97 dB and 62.6 to 95.1 dBA. Otologic suctions positioned closer to the tympanic membrane resulted in louder sound levels, but was not statistically significant (P >.05). Using larger diameter suctions generated louder dB and dBA sound levels (P