Topical delivery of antibiotics in treating ear infections has a number of advantages over systemic delivery. Some of these advantages include:

1. A higher concentration of anitibiotic delivered to the site of infections (making the emergence of bacterial resistance improbable)
2. No systemic side effects from medications delivered topically
3. Possible to alter the microenvironment using topical delivery
4. Topical medications are usually less ecpensive than comparable systemic medications.
5. Ingredients can be combined for maximum efficacy

     Powders, in the form of insufflations, have been used for many years in different combinations. These powders have the advantage of adhering to moist surfaces and have long dwelling times within the external auditory canal, middle ear, or mastoid cavities. In a healthy mastoid cavity, powders can persist for months. In an ear that is profusely draining, the dwelling time is much shorter but it is still likely to exceed that of liquids. Powders appear to adhere tenaciously to granulation tissue, making them especially attractive for chronic suppurative otitis media. They are relatively easey to apply and the insufflators are readily available and inexpensive.*

     A large variety of different ingredients have been used in powders. Most are a mixture of antibiotics, antifungal agents, and steroids. Other preparations include the use of boric acid in order to maintain the proper pH in the ear. For more information on otic insufflations, call our nearest location or CLICK HERE.