Why Use earplugs/swim molds?

I recommend custom-fitted earplugs, often called swim molds, for children with ear vent tubes or eardrum perforations for two reasons: (1) to prevent waterborne ear infections, and (2) to protect the sensitive middle and inner ear mechanisms from sudden pressure changes.

When ear vent tubes are in place, the normally sterile middle ear is potentially exposed to bacteria and yeasts residing in the outer ear canal. Water entering the canal, can transport these germs down to the eardrum and through the vent tube lumen into the middle ear or mastoid cavity where an infection may begin. In addition, children swimming in pond, lake, ocean, or inadequately chlorinated pool water, may contract an infection if contaminated water flows through the vent tube.

Ear vent tubes eliminate an important pressure barrier between the outside world and the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear. The intact eardrum and its attached muscles form a buffer to prevent transmission of any sudden pressure changes to the sound transmitting ossicles and the membranes of the inner ear. When vent tubes are in place, a pressure change in the ear canal will directly affect the round and oval window membranes and through them the inner ear. This can occur if your child jumps or dives into the water and falls flat on the water’s surface. This is a particular risk for older children who waterski or windsurf.