• Skye Poulton, Stephanie Yau, Daniel Anderson, and Daniel Bennett.
• Aust Fam Physician. 2015 Oct 1; 44 (10): 731-4.

BackgroundEar syringing is a very common practice among general practitioners (GPs). It is used by many as the treatment of choice for cerumen (ear wax), and is usually effective and safe. However, complications from syringing are an increasingly common reason for presentation to ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists and medico-legal complaints against GPs.ObjectiveThe aim of this article is to provide GPs with the knowledge to safely manage cerumen.DiscussionEar wax is an important part of a normal functioning ear. It is mostly asymptomatic and requires no treatment. Softening ear drops may be necessary to help the ear fulfil its self-cleaning function, and should be considered first-line treatment. Syringing can be safely performed if this fails by taking a thorough history and examination to exclude contraindications, gaining patient consent and ensuring the appropriate use of equipment. Referral to an ENT clinic for manual removal with microsuctioning may be necessary in the event of contraindications, complications or failure.

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