I’m All Ears: A Population-Based Analysis of Consumer Product Foreign Bodies of the Ear

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the nationwide incidence of ear foreign body (FB) presentations to the emergency department (ED) and analyze the most common FB consumer products encountered. Methods: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was evaluated for ED visits that included “ear foreign bodies” from 2010 through 2019. The most frequent foreign bodies were identified and organized by demographics. Results: A total of 20,545 ear FB cases were found, with an estimated 608,860 ED visits nationwide. Female patients (56%) were more likely to have jewelry and first aid equipment FBs. Males between the ages of 5 and 15 years were significantly ( P < 0.05) more likely to have paper products, pens/pencils, and desk supplies in their ears. Conclusion: Ear FBs represent a substantial proportion of healthcare expenditures. Although children are the most commonly affected individuals, all ages require further education and preventive measures.

Ear and Nose Foreign Body Removal in Pediatric Patients

“…r Allowing children to only have access to age-appropriate toys, food, and household items is key to preventing foreign bodies of the ear and nose (Cetinkaya et al, 2015). r Ear foreign bodies may be prevented in infants and young children if parents are encouraged to delay ear piercing until children are at least 4 years of age (Helbing et al, 2021).…”

“…Children presenting with ear foreign bodies are also a common occurrence in emergency medicine. Helbing, Straughan, Pasick, Benito, and Zapanta (2021) note that there were 20,545 ear foreign body cases from 2010 Females presenting with ear foreign bodies are most commonly found to have a piece of jewelry or first aid material whereas males are more likely to present with paper products, desk items (pens, pencils, erasers etc. ), rocks, or BBs (Helbing et al, 2021;Xiao, Kshirsagar, & Rivero, 2020).…”

“…Helbing, Straughan, Pasick, Benito, and Zapanta (2021) note that there were 20,545 ear foreign body cases from 2010 Females presenting with ear foreign bodies are most commonly found to have a piece of jewelry or first aid material whereas males are more likely to present with paper products, desk items (pens, pencils, erasers etc. ), rocks, or BBs (Helbing et al, 2021;Xiao, Kshirsagar, & Rivero, 2020). Like nasal presentations, foreign bodies are more commonly found in the right side (Awad & ElTaher, 2017).…”

“…Ear foreign bodies may be prevented in infants and young children if parents are encouraged to delay ear piercing until children are at least 4 years of age (Helbing et al, 2021).…”